For 16 years, disc golf players have been descending on the valley for the Lost Egg Classic.
The annual tournament is set to go July 30-31 in Wayne. It has become a tradition for the Alberta disc golf community.
“We did preregistration this year just because the demand has been growing, and we are almost sold out,” said organizer Elijah Isaac. “We have 105 people registered and paid up, and we have room for 110.”
Registration is now closed.
Isaac had been involved in disc golf for a number of years and this is his sixth year organizing this tournament. Over the tournament’s history, the sport has been gaining momentum and followers.
“It is one of those things where it has just been growing slowly and steadily. Since I took over, my goal was just to try to make it bigger and better every year,” he said.
For those unfamiliar with the sport, it is a cross between Frisbee and golf. The game is played out very much like golf, but on natural terrain. Rather than using a ball and clubs, the player throws discs. These vary in weight and size depending on distances. The ‘holes’ are stationary posts.
Because of the low expense and minimal impact or upkeep, courses have been springing up in communities across Canada and the US. There are even professional ranks.
“When you start going into the United States and other places like that, there are people who are making their living off playing disc golf,” said Isaac.
Wayne is the original site for the tournament. For a few years it was played at the Morrin Bridge Recreational area, but has since returned to its roots.
“I think this is year seven that we have been back at Wayne,” said Isaac.
Wayne now has a permanent course and there are plans to install one in Midland Provincial Park, and possibly in Horseshoe Canyon.
They have been exploring hosting a larger competition in the valley.
“We have a maximum capacity of 110 with one course, we can’t fit any more people on the course,” said Isaac.
If another course opens up, they could double the size of the event.
The tournament plays this Saturday and Sunday. There are many places to watch, get a taste for the sport and meet some of the players.
More information is available at www.thelostegg.com.
