The Town of Cochrane has opened the town’s first disc golf course down by Riverfront Park.
The course opened to the public last week and was initiated after requests from user groups. The idea was presented to council and approved and construction started in the summer.
“There has been some popularity with the game in the city (of Calgary) and there were several venues to choose from,” said Laurie Drukier, communications advisor with the Town of Cochrane.
The first three holes of the nine hole course are being used as a trial, meaning if the site is well used, the second phase will begin as early as 2018.
The current budget is minimal as all labour has been in house, including the design and construction. The total cost for a nine-hole course should be less than $5,000.
Drukier says all the feedback they’ve received has been positive, but some residents feel like the expansion is needed sooner rather than later.
Matthew Pettis a resident who has played disc golf in the past says the expansion would draw a bigger crowd.
“Three holes to start in my opinion is pretty small and not very enjoyable,” Pettis said.
“As someone who plays often it wouldn’t take very long to finish a round of three holes. If it gets expanded to nine, I imagine there would be a much larger following in this town. It will be hard to continue an interest for the sport with only three holes.”
Other residence such as Ken Silcox feels like the course shouldn’t be there in the first place.
“I personally don’t understand anything about disc golf, but it’s in the way,” Silcox said.
“It interrupts wild life, as well as locals trying to enjoy the park.”
For those interested, disc golf is free to the public.
