PDGA Introduces Bid Process to Join National Tour

The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) is looking for talented tournament directors and event hosts to join its esteemed National Tour in 2021. In a bid to ensure fairness and quality, the PDGA has introduced a standardized proposal process that will award six spots on the circuit. The Request for Proposal is now available, with a deadline for submission set at July 1, 2020.

The decision to introduce a bid process was driven by the rapid growth of disc golf in recent years. According to the PDGA, over 4,500 sanctioned tournaments took place in 2019 alone, resulting in an influx of inquiries from tournament directors seeking to join the National Tour. By implementing this new system, the PDGA aims to maintain the high standards that have come to define its flagship series.

"We are thrilled to see the prestige of the NT continue to grow," said Mike Downes, Director of Operations for the PDGA. "We can't thank our community hosts, TDs, and volunteers enough for their endless support." The bid process will ensure that only the most exceptional events make it onto the National Tour.

To give potential bidders a roadmap for success, the PDGA has highlighted six existing tournaments as exemplary models of quality. These events – the Texas State Disc Golf Championships, Dynamic Discs Glass Blown Open, Santa Cruz Masters Cup, Beaver State Fling, Delaware Disc Golf Challenge, and Music City Open – have consistently demonstrated an elite level of competition, championship-worthy courses, and excellent community support.

When evaluating proposals, PDGA staff will be looking for dedicated staff, local amenities, date flexibility, and a proven track record of hosting high-quality events with competitive payouts. "We're excited to see which tournament directors toss their hats into the ring for 2021," said Shawn Sinclair, PDGA Events Manager. "It's going to be tough decisions, but that's a good problem to have."

The PDGA National Tour plays a vital role in promoting disc golf and developing new talent within the sport. As part of its Elite Series, the circuit offers players a platform for competition and recognition, with champions crowned at the end of each season. The 2020 National Tour is set to kick off on March 27 with the Texas State Disc Golf Championships, and applications are now open for next year's event.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/2021-pdga-national-tour-now-open-bid-process