Winter - One - Discerland Tournament Delights Despite Frosty Weather Delay
By: Joe Falin, Programs & Facilities Manager, Orange County Parks & Recreation Department
On Saturday, February 1, Orange County Parks & Recreation hosted the annual Winter One - Disc - erland Disc Golf Tournament. This year, the tournament saw 34 participants compete across six flights, with the top three finishers in each flight earning awards. Every player was given a commemorative disc, a golf towel, and a mini disc. The top three finishers in each flight also received a gift card to a local restaurant and an OCPR hat. Originally scheduled for January 25, the tournament had to be postponed due to weather concerns on the course. This decision turned out to be fortunate, as the rescheduled date offered nearly perfect playing conditions. A unique feature of the Winter One - Disc - Erland tournament is that participants are only allowed to use the provided commemorative
disc during their rounds. The specific details of the disc ’ s make and model weren ’ t shared with players beforehand. For this year ’ s event, participants used the Innova DX Rollo Midrange Disc, which added an unforgettable challenge. Known for being understable, this disc excels in roller shots and sweeping turnovers, making it ideal for beginners or as a driver. Due to its understable nature, many players saw the disc literally flip mid - flight, rolling down the course—hence its name, the "Rollo." The disc ’ s unpredictability led to some of the highest scores in tournament history, and for the first time ever, no participant managed to shoot par or better! The race for the overall tournament title came down to a dramatic throw - off between Caleb Roberts and Ray Starks, both finishing with a score of 56 (+1). Ultimately, Ray Starks prevailed, securing the crown as the tournament champion. But the excitement didn ’ t end there. In total, there were eight throw - offs to determine the top three finishers in each flight, creating a thrilling finish. The largest throw - off occurred in the third flight, where eight players shot a 61 (+7), setting up the biggest throw - off in tournament history. In all, 24 of the 34 participants faced off in throw - offs to determine their final standing. Looking ahead, Orange County Parks & Recreation ’ s next disc golf event will be the “ Spring Fling ” tournament on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Participants will have the option to purchase a plastic egg containing a mystery modifier for their second round. For more information on upcoming OCPR events, visit www.orangecountyva.gov/ocpr or contact us at (540) 672 - 5435.
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