Disc Golf Seeds Sown in China as PDGA Contingent Builds Relations

As our journey through Eastern Asia came full circle, we reflected on the incredible experiences and connections made in China. Led by PDGA International Director Brian Hoeniger, our team arrived in Shanghai via high-speed bullet train, before making their way to the southern coastal city of Xiamen. This picturesque tourist destination boasts a rich history, stunning beaches, and a thriving business community.

While in Xiamen, we had the pleasure of attending the World Flying Disc Federation-sanctioned Xiamen Beach Ultimate Open, an event hosted by Yikun Discs and the Xiamen Tourist Bureau. The tournament featured local businesses as sponsors, including a real estate development company, a bank, a brewery, and a coffee house, highlighting the growing interest in disc sports among Chinese entrepreneurs.

One of the highlights of our visit was meeting the coed squad from Boracay Island in the Philippines, who have made a remarkable name for themselves in international competitions. Their dedication to the sport is inspiring, and their story serves as a testament to the power of mentorship and passion in achieving greatness.

However, our primary goal was to build relationships with local decision-makers and government officials, who are eager to invest in disc sports infrastructure in Xiamen. The vision for a professional training facility at a designated course site is ambitious but achievable, with the potential to produce China's first world-class players.

During our visit, we also introduced disc golf to educators and students at an experimental middle school in Shanghai, generating excitement and interest among this younger generation of sports enthusiasts. As we conclude our time in China, we are confident that the seeds sown will soon sprout, leading to a thriving disc golf community.

Our whirlwind journey across Eastern Asia has been nothing short of remarkable. We have witnessed firsthand the growth of disc golf in Japan and its spread into Thailand, South Korea, and other countries in the region. China's potential as a hub for international disc sports competitions is undeniable, making it an exciting time for our sport to flourish.

As we prepare to return home, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Yikun Discs, the China Disc Golf Center, and local officials for their unwavering support and hospitality. We look forward to watching the growth of disc golf in China and exploring new opportunities for international collaboration.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/seeds-planted-pdga-international-trip-china-wraps