Next Generation Disc Golf Expands Qualifier Tournaments to 40 New Events
Date Published
Next Generation Disc Golf has announced a significant expansion of its Qualifier Tournaments, with 40 additional events sanctioned by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA). This move is in direct response to player feedback, which has been overwhelmingly positive regarding the growth and popularity of Next Gen's tournament series. The added qualifiers will provide more opportunities for amateur golfers to compete at a higher level, mirroring the competitive atmosphere found at top professional events.
"We've been energized by the enthusiasm of our amateur competitors across the country," said Dave Feldberg, Tour Director of Next Generation Disc Golf. "Their feedback has been invaluable in shaping our tournament series, and we're excited to provide even more opportunities for them to participate." The new qualifier tournaments will offer PDGA members a unique experience, with XC-Tier status awarding valued points and ratings while maintaining the parameters of the Next Gen tour.
The Next Generation Tour is comprised of over 140 qualifiers spanning nine regions nationwide. For an entry fee of $48, competitors receive a comprehensive players package worth $65, including two exclusive Latitude 64 discs available only through the series. "That Next Gen Gladiator is money!" exclaimed Ricky Wysocki, current World Champion and Latitude 64-sponsored player.
Competitors in the qualifiers will vie for invitations to their Regional Championship, with the number of invites dependent on field size. The winner of each qualifier earns a free entry into their regional championship, valued at $125. Top finishers at the Regional Championships then advance to the National Championship in November, which promises to be one of the richest amateur tournaments in disc golf history. In addition to prize money and prestige, the top five male finishers receive coveted Touring Cards for the 2018 Disc Golf Pro Tour. The top women's finisher in "the DANCe" also receives a Pro Tour Card.
Key sponsors supporting Next Generation Disc Golf include Latitude 64, Keen Shoes, ZÜCA, DexShell waterproof socks, Shady Rays sunglasses, Onnit nutritional and exercise equipment, Nixon Watches, Infinity Disc Golf, and The Disc Golf Center. The organization is also partnered with DG Course Review and the Disc Golf Pro Tour.
PDGA membership is required for sanctioned Next Gen Qualifiers, with a $10 non-member fee applicable to non-active members according to PDGA guidelines. Non-sanctioned qualifiers remain available for registration. To participate in any qualifier event or learn more about Next Generation Disc Golf's tournament series, visit nextgenerationdiscgolf.com.
This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/latitude-64s-next-generation-tour-announces-more-qualifiers