Disc Golf Returns with a Bang Despite Social Distancing

After a two-month hiatus caused by the coronavirus pandemic, disc golf is slowly making its way back onto the scene. The first step towards this return was Bluff Out the Back C-Tier, held at Schneiter's Bluff Golf in West Point, Utah on Monday night. A total of 36 eager competitors showed up to experience the thrill of sanctioned play once again.

Hosted by Shawn Swapp, a local teacher who also participated in the tournament, the event was a significant milestone for disc golf enthusiasts. Despite social distancing measures and driving winds that made conditions challenging, players were thrilled to be back on the course. "Everyone was pretty relieved to be out there," Swapp said, noting that the small crowd was due in part to the strong gusts.

To ensure compliance with Utah's COVID-19 guidelines, which allow for events of up to 50 people as long as social distancing is maintained, Swapp implemented various measures. These included using tee times, distributing event information via Facebook, handling payouts online, and employing the PDGA Digital Scorecard. He also collaborated with Davis County's coronavirus task force to ensure that all necessary precautions were taken.

One of the key aspects of the event was maintaining social distancing among players. While masks weren't required, hand sanitizer was readily available on site. Chris Norman, who won the Pro Masters 40+ division with a impressive score, commended Swapp for his efforts in making the tournament a success despite the challenges. "Everybody kind of stands a little bit further away from each other," Norman explained. "It's hard to get used to, but it's good."

The event was not without its quirks, however. Players had to adapt to new norms, such as keeping their distance and minimizing social interactions. Despite these adjustments, the atmosphere remained lively, with players showing respect for the guidelines set forth by Swapp.

Swapp himself seemed pleased with how the event turned out, citing the simplicity of running on tee times and implementing PDGA Best Practices for Competition During COVID-19. "It didn't feel difficult at all," he said. "The difficult part was that it was short notice." He plans to host another C-Tier tonight on Schneiter's front course.

Norman expressed confidence that disc golfers will continue to adjust to the new normal, and he looks forward to competing in future events. "It was good to see the guys," he said. "It was good to compete. I think things are just on the ups."

As PDGA sanctioning continues to reopen in regional phases, it's clear that disc golf is slowly but surely making its way back onto the scene. With careful planning and adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, events like Bluff Out the Back C-Tier will become more frequent, bringing together competitors from all over.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/everyone-was-pretty-relieved-be-out-there