Beaver State Fling Cancelled Due to Storm Damage and Pandemic Uncertainty

The cancellation of the 2021 Beaver State Fling (BSF) marks a disappointing turn of events for disc golf enthusiasts and organizers alike. The fourth stop on the PDGA National Tour, which was set to take place at Milo McIver State Park in Oregon from June 10-13, has been scrapped due to course damage and safety concerns.

A severe winter storm hit the Portland area on February 12, 2021, leaving thousands without power and causing widespread destruction. The aftermath of the storm revealed extensive damage to the park's landscape, with downed trees and debris littering the usually scenic grounds. It took nearly three weeks for park officials to clear the roads, and even now, the Riverbend day-use area remains closed as a precaution.

Adding to the uncertainty surrounding the event was the ongoing pandemic, which had raised questions about the feasibility of hosting large gatherings in the near future. As a result, park officials were hesitant to issue special use permits, further complicating the situation.

In light of these circumstances, PDGA Director of Operations Mike Downes acknowledged that the decision to cancel the event was not taken lightly. "This is heartbreaking," he said, "but we have to prioritize the safety of our members." The cancellation has been met with disappointment from both the Portland disc golf community and fans of the sport nationwide.

The BSF has a rich history, dating back to 2009, when it first joined the PDGA National Tour. Over the years, the event has hosted numerous elite-level professional tournaments, including Pro World Championships. While this year's cancellation is undoubtedly disappointing, organizers are hopeful that the event will return in future years.

In the meantime, the PDGA will focus on the remaining four events on the National Tour schedule, with the Dynamic Discs Open set to kick off in late April. The cancellation of the BSF serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and adaptability in the face of uncertainty, and organizers are already looking forward to the next iteration of this beloved event.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/2021-beaver-state-fling-canceled