Disc golf
Disc golf is a target sport in which players throw aerodynamic flying discs into elevated metal basket targets using as few throws as possible. Modeled on traditional golf, courses feature natural hazards across 9 or 18 designated holes.
AT A GLANCE
- ERA
- 20th century
- ORIGIN
- United States
- PLAYERS
- 1–4 per group
- EQUIPMENT
- Discs, target baskets
- PLAYING AREA
- 9 or 18 hole course
- DURATION
- 1.5–3 hours
- GOVERNING BODY
- PDGA
- OLYMPIC
- No
Terms relative to par
| Term | Strokes |
|---|---|
| Condor | -4 |
| Albatross | -3 |
| Eagle | -2 |
| Birdie | -1 |
| Par | 0 |
| Bogey | +1 |
| Double Bogey | +2 |
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Bladworth pupils play early 'Tin Lid Golf'. |
| 1965 | George Sappenfield organizes target frisbee play for children. |
| 1975 | Ed Headrick patents the Disc Golf Pole Hole basket. |
| 1976 | Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) is established. |
| 1982 | First official PDGA World Championship held. |
How a game works
Players tee off toward a target basket and make subsequent throws from behind where the disc comes to rest. The hole is complete when the disc lands inside the chain basket or tray. Courses consist of 9 or 18 holes set in parkland or wooded terrain.
Scoring in one line
Each throw counts as one stroke, and the player completing the course in the fewest total strokes wins.
Where it came from
Early variants using metal tin lids appeared in Canada in 1926, but the modern sport developed in California during the late 1960s. Ed Headrick standardized the game by designing the modern chain target basket and founding the Professional Disc Golf Association in 1976.
Disc golf today
Disc golf is played worldwide across thousands of public and private courses. The Professional Disc Golf Association serves as the global governing body, overseeing international rules, player ratings, and sanctioning professional tour events annually.
Run a Disc golf tournament
Brackets, fixtures and standings in your browser — 18 holes.
FAQ
Is disc golf an Olympic sport?
No, disc golf is not currently an Olympic sport, though it is recognized by the International World Games Association.
What is the difference between a frisbee and a disc golf disc?
Disc golf discs are smaller, heavier, denser, and shaped with distinct rim bevels designed for specific flight trajectories rather than catching.
How long does a round of disc golf take?
A standard 18-hole round takes about 1.5 to 3 hours depending on course terrain and group size.