Disc Golf Takes Flight in Singapore and Beyond
Date Published
The warm and sunny climes of South East Asia have long been a haven for those seeking to escape the chill of winter. However, this region is now also becoming a hotspot for another popular pastime: disc golf. The proof lies in the inaugural PDGA event held recently in Singapore, which saw 27 amateur players from seven countries converge on West Coast Park for the C-Tier Singapore Sling tournament.
The temporary layout, set amidst majestic casuarina trees with the world's largest container port as a stunning backdrop, presented a thrilling challenge to competitors. Local knowledge proved to be the deciding factor, with Canadian transplant Leslie Anklovitch emerging victorious in the Advanced division after shooting a course record 4-under par 38. Anklovitch's impressive performance earned him the crystal trophy and a three-stroke lead over Thailand-based American Brock Pitzer.
The Singapore Sling event also marked a significant milestone for the region, as it provided an opportunity for local authorities to experience the excitement of disc golf firsthand. Representatives from Singapore Parks were in attendance, with hopes that their positive impression would pave the way for the installation of a permanent course in this thriving city-state.
Just a day after the Singapore Sling, players made their way to Johor Bahru in neighboring Malaysia to participate in the Attack of the Chains PDGA event. This C-Tier tournament took place at the Bale Equestrian and Country Club and featured an innovative format: players competed on the front nine from one direction before reversing course and playing from a different set of tee pads, effectively doubling their round.
Local enthusiasts Eric Grover and Jason Fox played key roles in organizing this groundbreaking event, which drew 38 participants from around the world. What was most striking about the Attack of the Chains tournament was the enthusiastic participation of local players, including five Malaysian women and six juniors who showcased an impressive aptitude for disc golf. The PDGA International Director took note of these young talents by awarding them all PDGA memberships.
In the end, Finland's Janne Salmi secured his first PDGA event win in his second appearance, edging out Singapore's Lance DuBos and Leslie Anklovitch by a single stroke. Local Malaysian players also shone in their respective divisions, with Jean Poignee taking home the trophy in the Juniors 18 & Under category.
The Attack of the Chains event has inspired many local enthusiasts to take up disc golf, with several having already traveled to Thailand's Koh Samui Island for the renowned Samui Swine Classic. As Eric Grover, natural leader and newly appointed PDGA Country Coordinator, humbly acknowledges, this nascent development is a testament to the region's growing passion for the sport.
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This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/disc-golf-expands-southeast-asia