The Battle for Supremacy Begins: Pro Worlds Descends Upon Augusta
Date Published
The anticipation is palpable as the world's top disc golfers gather in Augusta, Georgia, for the 2017 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships. This prestigious event has been a benchmark of excellence in the sport, and this year promises to be no exception. With a new format that splits the Open and Open Women's divisions from the rest of the professional fields, the stage is set for an epic showdown.
For the first time since 1982, the Open and Open Women's divisions have been separated, paving the way for a more focused competition. This change has not only reduced the land required for the event but also given the competitors more time to hone their skills on just two courses: the WR Jackson Memorial Disc Golf Course and the Marine/Navy Disc Golf Course at Fort Gordon.
The 210-strong field of professionals from nine countries is filled with familiar faces, each vying for the ultimate prize. Ricky Wysocki, fresh from his impressive performance at the 2017 Beaver State Fling, will face stiff competition from Paul McBeth, one of the most dominant players in the sport's history. Their rivalry has captivated fans worldwide, and this year's Pro Worlds promises to be no exception.
The Women's division is equally stacked, with Valarie Jenkins aiming to join an elite group of five-time World Champions. She faces stiff competition from Paige Pierce, who has been on a tear since the beginning of 2017. Pierce's incredible form has seen her rack up numerous victories, including all four PDGA National Tour events and several A-Tier and B-Tier wins.
The two courses that will host the competition are as impressive as they are challenging. The WR Jackson Memorial Disc Golf Course, with its intricate design by John Houck, requires precision and strategy to navigate. Meanwhile, the Marine/Navy Disc Golf Course is a behemoth of a course, demanding endurance, power, and patience from even the most skilled players.
For those unable to be in Augusta in person, there are numerous ways to follow along. The PDGA has arranged for live coverage through SmashBoxxTV's aftershow, as well as post-production video via Jomez Productions, Central Coast Disc Golf, and Prodigy Disc. Updates will also be available on the PDGA's social media channels.
As the competition gets underway, one thing is certain: only the best of the best will emerge victorious in this ultimate test of skill and strategy. The battle for supremacy has begun, and it promises to be an unforgettable few days in Augusta, Georgia.
This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/2017proworlds/stage-set-2017-pro-worlds