Disc golf flies to central Newfoundland with a new temporary Gander course

Brent Keough, vice president of Gander Disc Golf, says he’s excited to see a new course in the community. (Melissa Tobin/CBC)

Disc golf enthusiasts in Gander are hoping a temporary course set up for the summer will become a full-time reality.

Brent Keough, vice president of Gander Disc Golf, says the nine-hole course at Airport Nordic Ski Trails is the first of its kind in central Newfoundland. There are also classes in St. John’s, Corner Brook and Stephenville.

“We’re very excited to bring it here,” Keough told CBC News in a recent interview.

“We’re building a community out of it, so they’re really excited to have one here downtown. And yes, I think it’s going to bring a lot more to Gander and the surrounding areas for the sport.”

Disc golf, also known as Frisbee golf, is played much like traditional golf as players aim to complete a hole in the fewest number of strokes – or throws – possible.

But instead of using golf clubs and balls, players throw discs into metal baskets. Different discs can be used for different distances, Keough said, but only one disc is needed to play them.

LISTEN | Brent Keough hits the disc golf course with Weekend AM Melissa Tobin:

About 45 people attended the group’s last pop-up event, and Keough said the sport is growing in the region.

He was drawn to the sport because of its low impact and inclusive nature, while being a sport that can be played outside all year round. Metal baskets are built to withstand the elements and can be planted in the ground for year-round use, but this is not the case with the temporary Gander course.

“I love the fact that anyone can pick this up and play this game,” Keough said.

“For me, it brings something that’s so easily accessible to the community that I love, and hopefully others love.”

Keough said Gander disc golfers have been working with the provincial disc golf association to open the course, which will be open until the snow starts to fall. He wants to build a permanent 18-hole course, he said, which requires about $60,000 in fundraising, he added.

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