JOIN US FOR MERCED DGC'S NEW PUTTING LEAGUE - LOCATED AT THE TARMAC - BLAKER BREWING, AT CASTLE AFB, EVERY OTHER MONDAY!
BEGINNINGS: In 2007, Elec Pryor and Chad Santos had a vision of bringing disc golf to Merced and they made that vision a reality by working with the city to put in baskets at Fahrens Park right off of Buena Vista Drive. They organized what became known as the Merced County Disc Golf Club. Since then, there has been continuous growth through the expansion of the course as well as the maintenance put into preserving the park and its' surrounding environment. There have been weekly tournaments for locals as well as bigger tournaments which draw 100 to 200 people from various locations around California. In 2023, a group of club members decided to meet monthly to assist another club member with a project he had, surveying the course. This got our club excited about the possibilities that could be done with some structure, so we decided to elect board members and work hard towards receiving our non-profit status so we could make Fahrens better than ever before. In April of 2024, we were able to accomplish the feat of becoming a 501(c)(3) and changed our name to the Merced Disc Golf Club. See below for our current board members:
JASON BEACH: PRESIDENT
MANNY SANCHEZ: VICE-PRESIDENT
Disc Golfer Since: 2014
The OG, the Granddaddy of the Merced Disc Golf Club legacy—Manny Sanchez is the heart and soul of it all. For over a decade, Manny has been the driving force behind the club’s growth and the course’s evolution. From pouring his blood, sweat, and tears into its foundation to ensuring its future success, Manny has been the glue that holds it all together.
Whether he’s running the weekly events, organizing tournaments, or mentoring new players, Manny does it all—and always with a smile. A dedicated family man, loving father, incredible husband, and loyal friend, Manny is the kind of person everyone wants to be around. If you see him on the course, don’t hesitate to stop and say hi. Ask to join him for a round—he’s always ready to share tips and make you feel welcome.
Manny has been instrumental in leading the club through challenging upgrades, ensuring that as a team, we provide the best possible experience for everyone—from beginners discovering the sport to seasoned pros. Manny Sanchez isn’t just part of the club; he is the club.
SARAH BEACH: SECRETARY
LAWRENCE RAMIREZ III: CHAIR OF CLUB & COMMUNITY GROWTH
Disc Golfer Since: 2010
Club Member Since: 2020
I have been playing since the back side of the course was a dream, and since discovering the sport the club has made it a reality. I joined the club during 2020 when I had a little more free time to indulge in the sport and the club welcomed me with open arms. I would like to forward that opportunity to anyone that may be interested, whether it be relaxation, friendship, or competition. The club is growing fast and we stand on the shoulders of those who created the opportunity for us to carry on their legacy and make it what we all know it can become. I am thankful to be able to lend a helping hand to make our collective dreams come true.
A little about myself, I was born and raised in Merced, was in the military and have worked jobs that have taken me all across our beautiful country. With that being said, anyone would be hard-pressed to find a better group that has become a family within their own choosing, and I would like to continue what has been passed on to myself and others to build this club and community. I will strive to grow the love and competition of this sport and hopefully leave it in the hands of like-minded members that share the love and compassion for those around them.
All are welcome, enjoy your time and pass it on.
JERRY RAY: CO-CHAIR DIRECTOR OF CLUB & COMMUNITY GROWTH
Disc Golfer Since: 2006
I have been playing disc golf since 2006 and have been a proud member of the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) since 2008. I am passionate about growing the sport and fostering a vibrant disc golf community. My focus lies in supporting the growth of disc golf locally and beyond with the Merced Disc Golf Club and its contributions to the community.
In addition to my love for disc golf, I have been an educator with the Merced County Office of Education (MCOE) since 2000. Beyond the classroom, I am also committed to community involvement, particularly through fundraising efforts that make a meaningful impact. My goal is to connect people, promote positive change, and build a stronger, more engaged community.