Disc Golf Takes Root in Africa: A Success Story from Zambia

In 2022, a Marco Polo Program grant set the wheels in motion for something truly remarkable in Zambia, Africa. Eagles Wings Disc Golf, with the support of the grant, sent an eight-member team to install a nine-hole disc golf course in the Southern African nation. The mission was ambitious, but the initial visit had left everyone feeling hopeful that disc golf would soon become a staple in Zambia.

Fast-forward less than two years, and it's clear that things have far surpassed even the most optimistic expectations. Elem Katambo, a native staff member of Push The Rock Zambia and manager of the installed course, was instrumental in predicting the long-term success of disc golf in Zambia. Before the team departed, he confidently stated that he envisioned disc golf having a "long life" in the country.

Katambo's prediction has not only come to pass but has also seen him take center stage as a leader in promoting the sport. In October 2023, he traveled to Ethiopia to participate in the first PDGA-sanctioned event on African soil, the Ethiopian Open. While traveling within Africa can be expensive, the generosity of the disc golf community proved once again that when there's a will, there's a way.

Thanks to John Luetzow and Yohannes Desalegn, the event organizers, all in-country expenses were covered, as well as Katambo's entry fee. Furthermore, several US-based disc golfers kindly contributed towards his airfare. This combined effort allowed Katambo to attend the Ethiopian Open and become the first PDGA member from Zambia.

Katambo expressed his gratitude for the experience, stating that he was inspired by the high level of skill displayed by professionals from various countries. The opportunity to participate in a sanctioned PDGA event not only motivated him but also sparked new ideas on how disc golf can be developed further in Zambia.

The seeds planted during Katambo's visit have already begun to bear fruit. He recently presented his vision to the children he works with regularly, and many of them are eager to hone their skills – some even asked when a PDGA event would come to Zambia. Plans for an additional nine holes on the existing course are also underway.

The incredible story of disc golf in Zambia serves as a testament to the power of community-driven efforts. The Marco Polo grant was just the starting point, followed by numerous contributions from organizations such as Innova Champion Disc, UDisc, Upper Park Designs, and Paragon Disc Golf, among many others. This unwavering support has allowed Zambia's disc golf journey to flourish, with boundless potential for growth and development in the future.

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