Disc Golfers Put Skills to the Test in Extreme Skyland Classic Conditions
Date Published
The 2010 PDGA National Tour is set to conclude this weekend with the grueling Skylands Classic at Blue Mountain Resort in Palmerton, Pennsylvania. Unlike traditional golf courses, the rugged terrain of Blue Mountain is more akin to a high-intensity workout than a serene stroll through nature. The extreme conditions have pushed the world's top players to their limits, testing their physical and mental endurance.
As expected, the top contenders have risen to the challenge, navigating the 26-hole course with ease despite its intimidating features. Nikko Locastro from St. Louis has taken an early lead in the men's division, leveraging his recent Vibram Open National Tour title into a first-round advantage at Blue Mountain. Close on his heels is David Feldberg, the world number one-ranked player from Springfield, Oregon, who trails Locastro by just one throw.
Regional pro Steve Brinster from Hewitt, New York, has also impressed with his skills on the course, joining Feldberg in second place. Jason Dore from Skowhegan, Maine, Avery Jenkins from Santa Cruz, California, and last week's winner at Solitude Mountain in Utah, Paul Ulibarri from Scottsdale, Arizona, are tied for fourth place.
In the women's open division, Valarie Jenkins has taken the top spot with a strong 989-rated afternoon round. Her rival, Des Reading from Wimberley, Texas, held an early advantage after posting a morning 994-rated score but ultimately fell behind by three throws.
The Masters division is also heating up, with reigning Men's Masters World Champion Brad Hammock from Decatur, Georgia, and Jay Reading from Wimberley, Texas, locked in a fierce battle for the top spot. Meanwhile, Don Thoms from Bridgewater, New Jersey, leads the Grandmasters category.
The Skylands Classic course boasts an impressive 26 holes, featuring uphill and downhill shots, dense woods, and open fields. With nearly 80 competitors vying for the title and optimal weather conditions in place, this weekend's tournament promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the PDGA National Tour. For live coverage and updates, visit http://www.pdga.com or http://www.skibluemt.com.
This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/skylands-nt-day-1