Disc Golf's Global Surge: The Marco Polo Program's 10-Year Milestone

The past decade has been a phenomenal period for disc golf, with the sport experiencing rapid global expansion. The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) has played a significant role in this surge through its Marco Polo Program, launched in 2011 to support the introduction of disc golf in new countries around the world.

Conceived by the PDGA's Board of Directors, the Marco Polo Program aims to develop disc golf into a globally recognized competitive sport and recreational activity. Its objectives include providing funding for innovative international projects that promote the growth of disc golf, creating links between the PDGA, countries, and local disc golf communities, and establishing sustainable grassroots activities.

Since its inception, the program has made significant strides in bringing disc golf to various parts of the world, including Barbados, Ethiopia, Brazil, Nicaragua, Israel, Zambia, China, and others. The program's funds have been instrumental in hosting the first PDGA-sanctioned events in South America and Africa, paving the way for more communities to enjoy this low-cost and rewarding recreation.

One notable example of the program's impact is its introduction of disc golf in China, where local manufacturer Yikun Discs invited David Greenwell, Will Schusterick, and others to introduce the sport to schools, universities, and government representatives. Although access to sufficient land for courses remains a challenge, the group believes that with time, disc golf will gain traction in this vast country of 1.3 billion inhabitants.

The Marco Polo Program has been a catalyst for growth, inspiring local decision-makers to promote the sport and build courses. The program's success is evident in its ability to foster connections between countries, communities, and individuals passionate about disc golf. As a result, PDGA members have contributed over $60,000 this decade to international grassroots development through the Marco Polo Program.

The program has also provided resources for interested parties to learn more about its mission, eligibility criteria, application form, and progress reports from funded projects. For those who want to be part of this global movement, the Marco Polo Program landing page offers valuable information on how to get involved.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/decade-display-marco-polo-program