NEW TO DISC GOLF - A BRIEF GUIDE TO GET STARTED

Get ready to experience one of the fastest-growing and most exhilarating sports in the world—Disc Golf! Whether you're picking up a disc for the first time or looking for a fun new outdoor activity, you've come to the right place. Disc golf is an exciting blend of strategy, skill, and adventure, offering players of all ages and abilities the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors, challenge themselves, and connect with a vibrant community. Best of all? It’s easy to learn, affordable to play, and incredibly rewarding!

This guide will help you understand the basics of the game, where to play, and how to get involved with the Merced Disc Golf Club. Let’s get started on your disc golf journey!

What is Disc Golf?

Disc golf is similar to traditional golf but played with specially designed flying discs. Instead of hitting a ball into a hole, players throw discs toward a metal basket with hanging chains. The goal is to complete each hole in the fewest throws possible. Courses can be found in parks, forests, and open spaces, offering a variety of terrain and challenges. Disc golf is an individual sport, but it can also be played in groups, making it a social and engaging activity.

Basic Rules of Disc Golf

1. Start at the Tee Pad – Each hole begins with a throw from the designated tee pad. Tee pads may be concrete, turf, or natural ground, and they provide a stable surface to start your throw.

2. Throwing Order – The player with the lowest score on the previous hole throws from the Tee Pad first. On the first hole, the order is typically determined randomly or by mutual agreement. the players disc that is furthest from the basket goes first. 

3. Advancing the Disc – After the first throw, players throw from where their disc lands until they reach the basket. The player that is furthest from the basket goes first. Players must establish a supporting point behind the disc's lie (Approx 8.5x11 directly behind the disc and in line with the basket) when making their next throw.

4. Putting – Once within putting range (usually around 10 meters), a player must maintain balance and complete their throw without stepping past their lie. A successful putt results in the disc coming to rest in the basket or within the chains.

5. Scoring – Just like traditional golf, each throw counts as a stroke. The player with the lowest total strokes at the end of the round wins. Scorecards or digital scoring apps can help keep track of scores throughout the game. But remember, the game is about gradually getting better, and competing against the course and your own personal best. 

6. Out of Bounds (OB) – Some courses have areas marked as OB. If a disc lands in an OB area, a +1 penalty stroke is added, and the player throws from the last in-bounds spot or a designated drop zone. OB areas may include water hazards, roads, or designated restricted areas. 

7. Hazards - Some course holes have HAZARDS, this is an area that is deemed a hazard by the Tournament Director, landing in an area marked as a HAZARD, +1 penalty stroke is added, and the disc is played where it lies. 

Where to Play?

The Merced Disc Golf Club maintains several courses in the area, including Fahrens Park Disc Golf Course in Merced, CA. This course offers a mix of open fairways and tree-lined holes, providing a balanced challenge for players of all skill levels. You can find course maps, events, and club activities on our website. Additionally, many public parks and recreation areas have disc golf courses available for free or a minimal fee.

What Equipment Do I Need?

One of the best things about disc golf is that you don’t need a lot of expensive equipment to get started. You only need one disc to begin, but most players eventually use different types of discs to improve their game:

• Driver – Designed for long-distance throws, these discs have a sharp edge and aerodynamic design to maximize distance.

• Midrange – Offers better accuracy and control than a driver while still covering a decent distance. Useful for approach shots and shorter holes.

• Putter – Best for short throws and putting into the basket. These discs have a thicker edge and a more predictable flight path for accuracy.

Many local retailers and online stores sell beginner disc golf sets that include all three types of discs. As you advance, you may want to explore different disc plastics and flight ratings to find what works best for your play style.

Where Can I Find the Official Rules?

For complete, official rules, visit the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) website: www.pdga.com/rules. The PDGA provides a comprehensive set of rules that govern tournament play, but many of these rules can also be applied to casual rounds.

Join the Fun!

The Merced Disc Golf Club welcomes players of all skill levels! Whether you're looking for a casual round with friends or competitive tournament play, we have events and activities to match your interest. Our club regularly hosts league play, clinics, and community events to promote the sport and foster a strong disc golf community.

By joining the Merced Disc Golf Club, you gain access to:

• Weekly and monthly meetups

• Tournaments and league play

• Volunteer opportunities to improve local courses

• A welcoming community of disc golf enthusiasts

Follow us on social media and check out our website for more info!

Have questions? Contact us! 

See you on the course!