Disc Golf Unites: PDGA and DGPT Form Historic Partnership

A landmark moment in the history of disc golf has arrived with the announcement of a new partnership between the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) and the Disc Golf Pro Tour (DGPT). Effective in 2022, the two organizations will merge their National Tour and Elite Series into a single cohesive tour, known as The Disc Golf Pro Tour: "The Official Pro Tour of the PDGA."

This powerful alliance marks the culmination of over five years of discussions between the PDGA and DGPT, with the goal of creating the best possible outcomes for both parties. Mike Downes, Director of Operations for the PDGA, notes that this partnership will have far-reaching impacts on disc golf, affecting top-tier touring professionals as well as weekend warriors participating in local sanctioned leagues and regional tournaments.

"The DGPT will be able to continue growing the prestige and visibility of elite touring professionals, introducing new pros and fans to the sport," said Downes. "Meanwhile, the PDGA is committed to supporting event and tournament directors to enhance the experience for athletes competing in events ranging from PDGA-sanctioned leagues to premier events like our PDGA World Championships."

The partnership will also see the PDGA gain a minority ownership stake in DGPT, with Todd Rainwater remaining as majority owner. As part of the agreement, PDGA members will enjoy exclusive benefits, including a new subscription tier on the Disc Golf Network (DGN) and free live coverage of select events. Current PDGA members will receive a 50% discount on DGN subscriptions, valued at $60 annually.

Beyond these additional membership perks, the partnership enables the PDGA to allocate more resources into its seven major events, including the four PDGA World Championships and the Champions Cup. The organization will also increase efforts in core initiatives such as international growth, enhancing league and affiliate club programs, introducing disc golf into school systems, providing oversight of rules and competition standards, and promoting the sport's overall growth.

"The PDGA represents the foundation of the sport and is committed to preserving its history while building for the future," said Joe Chargualaf, Executive Director of the PDGA. "This partnership enables both organizations to work together to achieve this mission." Chargualaf expressed his gratitude for the close collaboration with Todd Rainwater and Jeff Spring over the past few years, leading to this historic moment.

As disc golf enters a new era in 2022, fans can expect exciting developments and innovations from the PDGA and DGPT partnership. Stay tuned to PDGA.com for updates on this groundbreaking agreement and its impact on the sport.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/announcing-official-pro-tour-pdga