December Discoveries: Disc Golf

This story is the second in a series of posts called "December Discoveries". Through the eyes of our staff and a few guest bloggers, the posts will shed light on fun activities to enjoy, new exhibits to experience and the interesting stories behind some of our local businesses. Whether you are discovering these attractions for the first time or rediscovering an old favorite, we hope that you enjoy the series.

Have you ever sat and thought about the saying to "stop and smell the roses?" In our hustle and bustle routine of life it is easy to overlook some of the simply joys. Example? I was born and raised in Martinsville-Henry County and have lived here all of my life. I have always loved the outdoors and being active, but over the past few years, even I am discovering new hobbies and simple pleasures that our community offers.

Last week I had the pleasure of stopping by the J. Frank Wilson Memorial Park and trying Disc Golf for the first time. For those who are unfamiliar with the concept, disc golf is played a lot like traditional golf, but with a weighted disc or a Frisbee, instead of clubs and balls. Rather than putting a ball into a hole you throw the disc into an elevated basket called a pole hole. Like golf, each basket has a par and the object is to complete each hole in as few throws as possible. Frank Wilson Park is home to an 18-hole course that winds around a rolling hill. 

Who knew that something so simple would be so much fun? I've known about J. Frank Wilson Park, probably best known to the locals as the "City Park," all of my life. I've known of the disc golf course for years, promoted the activity as a Tourism Ambassador for our community, but had never taken the time to experience it for myself.

Call it beginner's luck, but I was the closest to making my shot than any of the others who were with me.(Check back with me later as I learn the proper lingo!) As I quickly found myself drawn to the sport, I couldn't help being curious and started thinking of when I could get back out to the park to play the entire 18-hole course.

While out on the course, my colleagues and I met a man from Roanoke who was enjoying the course. He took the time to show us the differences between each type of disc used in a game. Just like having a variety of golf clubs is important, an experienced disc golfer caries discs in a variety of weights.  The visiting disc golfer seemed to be enjoying his game, so after a few quick questions we made our way to leave; but couldn't help but to turn back along the way to watch him throw as he progressed along the course.

If you are at all curious, try it sometime! You'll be glad you did.  

Martinsville Parks & Recreation operates the course and you can rent the disc golf supplies from them. And if this is a sport that you try and want to take up, you can also visit Southeastern Outdoor Supplies on Figsboro Road to purchase your own discs.

Get out and explore MHC; there's no telling what you may discover!