PDGA Extends Pro Worlds Format to Five Rounds for a More Exciting Experience

The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) has made a significant change to its flagship event, the PDGA Professional World Championships, by extending the format to five rounds instead of four. The decision was made after considering player feedback and experiences from previous events. The 2017 Pro Worlds in Augusta, Georgia, witnessed a 92-minute lightning delay that threatened to disrupt the final round.

According to Mike Downes, PDGA Director of Operations, the addition of an extra day will allow for more flexibility in dealing with inclement weather and provide additional exposure for sponsors. The event's new format will also include a cut after the fourth round, which will determine the number of players who advance to the final round.

The move is expected to make the event more enticing to potential hosts, as it will provide an extra day of economic impact for the host community. Jeff Spring, Pro Worlds Tournament Director, expressed excitement about the new format and the opportunities it brings. He stated that the resort's annual Fall Fest will take place in conjunction with the event, featuring live music, a craft beer and cider festival, glow rounds, and other recreational activities.

Ricky Wysocki, the reigning PDGA World Champion, welcomed the move back to a longer tournament format. He believes that five rounds make the event feel more like a world championship and provide an opportunity for players to prepare and train intensely throughout the year.

The decision was made after collaboration with the Majors/NT Committee, which recommended the change to the Board of Directors. The PDGA staff is in full support of this change, citing the benefits of increased flexibility, exposure for sponsors, and a deeper economic impact for the host community.

The 2018 Pro World Championships will take place at Smugglers' Notch Resort in Vermont from September 5-9, with singles play extended to an extra day. The 2019 event is scheduled to be held in August in Peoria, Illinois. Special lodging packages are now available for the event, and players and fans are encouraged to plan their trips early before the resort sells out.

The PDGA's decision aims to provide a more exciting experience for players and spectators alike, while also ensuring the smooth execution of the event. The new format is expected to bring numerous benefits, including increased exposure for sponsors, a deeper economic impact for the host community, and a more thrilling competition for the world championship title.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/fifth-round-added-pro-worlds-2018-and-beyond