Disc Golf Booms in Belize as the Country Prepares to Host Its First National Championship

Belize has become a hotbed for disc golf enthusiasts, thanks in part to the tireless efforts of Chris Leonard, a California transplant who arrived in the small Central American country just a few months before COVID-19 lockdowns took hold. Initially, there were only two courses and one PDGA member in Belize, but under Leonard's guidance, the number of active PDGA members has skyrocketed to 33, with nine courses now planned for construction.

Leonard first made contact with me through his private Instagram account, which showcased an impressive 18-hole course in Cerros Maya, Corozal. As we began discussing the potential for disc golf growth in Central America, he introduced me to Samuel Abdias and his FENIDIVO organization in Nicaragua, leading to a collaboration that would eventually yield Nicaragua's first-ever PDGA-sanctioned event.

The Battle for Cayo tournament, born from a casual round of golf between Randy Dueck, the highest-rated player in Belize, and Leonard, has become an annual highlight. From its humble beginnings with just 16 players in 2020 to last year's record-breaking 71 participants, this event has attracted competitors from as far away as California, Missouri, and British Columbia.

The growth of disc golf in Belize can be attributed largely to the Mennonite community, who are embracing the sport despite their initial reservations about technology. Word-of-mouth promotions have been instrumental in reaching this demographic, with many registering on the day of competition or even going AWOL, only to resurface at the next event.

As the Battle for Cayo approaches its fourth edition, the focus shifts towards Belize's first national championship, scheduled to take place in December at Graham Walker's private course in Mullins River. This milestone marks a significant achievement for the country, which will join an elite group of nations, including the USA, Canada, and Brazil, that have hosted their own national championships.

With its strong community support and continued efforts from Chris Leonard and his team, Belize is poised to become a model for disc golf development in Central America. As the sport continues to gain momentum, it's clear that this small country has big aspirations for growth and recognition on the international stage.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/battle-cayo