For the second day in a row during my work conference here in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I had JUST enough time to sneak in a quick eighteen holes between the conference I am attending and sunset. So today, I headed West to Grandville and Jenison to sneak in a couple nine-holers.
The first course I played was Heritage Park, a very short course (1,971 feet) that had a few tricky shots, but nothing overly difficult. I didn’t play the best, to the tune of a -6 (21). But there were a couple chances to lose discs on that course, and being in a hurry? I was happy to leave with a full backpack and six deuces. The second course I played was at Rosewood Park. Wide open, playing around a large “bowl” that must have dropped at least 20-25 feet below where most of the baskets were positioned. After slipping mid-release on the Hole 1 tee and getting uncomfortably close to a couple joggers (think about one of the worst grip-locks you’ve seen, then imagine a lefty having his disc cruise all the way to the bottom of said grassy “bowl,” ha!), I settled down to post a second -6 (21) on the day.
Those joggers saw the disc the entire way…and it was never even close to hitting them. I was simply embarrassed, as it was probably the ugliest shot of my 2018 campaign. At least, so far. 🙂
Tomorrow I wrap-up my official conference activities for work, then make my way North toward Ludington (Michigan), so I can catch the ferry across Lake Michigan and shave at least one day of driving and hotels off my trip. Hooray!
Magic Number = 569 (1,431 Courses Played)
About Tonn’s Travels
How it All Got Started: Tonn’s Travels >>
A main purpose of this blog will be to share information, helpful tips and tricks (everything from health and fitness to methods for saving money while you’re out “bagging courses” of your own), and ideas for better, safer course design. But I am also hoping to inspire others with my passion for the sport, via the stories I can share about all of the interesting experiences I have. All of the interesting people I meet. All of the amazing courses I am blessed to have the opportunity to play. If I can inspire even a handful of individuals to get off the couch, get “out of their bubble” or “security blanket” and explore more of this big, beautiful planet we all call home? Then I will consider this effort a success.
About Derek
Derek Tonn is a member of the DGA’s Ambassador Team. His company, Mapformation, LLC, has been DGA’s partner in the development of disc golf tee signage since 2012. The longer our two companies have worked together, and the more Derek has gotten to know all the great folks at DGA the more he has wanted to formally sing the company’s praises. The more he has realized that “Steady” Ed the father of disc golf and the modern day Frisbee vision for the sport and his company perfectly describes his own interests and priorities related to disc golf, and the more Derek has recently been encouraged to share his story.