MILDG

You know that feeling when you find a new passion and it just completely takes over your free time? That's exactly how I felt diving into disc golf last year. That's why I often find myself saying MILDG – Man I Love Disc Golf! It started as a casual thing, just throwing discs around with friends, but it quickly escalated into a full-blown obsession. Even though the colder months mean I'm not out there 4-6 times a week like I was during the peak season, the anticipation for those long, sunny summer rounds is already building! For me, it's not just about the game; it's the whole experience. I mean, who would have thought I'd track 500,451 steps and 79 miles distance just by playing a sport? It’s an incredible way to stay active, explore beautiful parks, and really connect with nature. I've been religiously tracking my progress, using a digital disc golf scorecard to keep tabs on everything. Seeing stats like my 7% birdie, 46% par, and 47% bogey percentages really motivates me to push for improvement. Every 6,256 total throws feels like a step further in my personal quest for a better game. And that feeling when you finally nail a 282 feet longest throw or sink a tricky putt? Pure euphoria! I've played 91 rounds and 1,674 holes so far, and honestly, the best part is often the company. Playing with my 12 cardmates makes the experience even richer. We've shared so many laughs, celebrated incredible shots, and commiserated over unfortunate bounces. There's nothing quite like the camaraderie on the course. We’ve definitely had our share of adventures, like trying to retrieve a disc stuck high up in the leafy branches of a tree or lodged precariously between a trunk and a branch! It's all part of the unique charm and challenge of the sport. I even remember one glorious round where my red disc landed perfectly on the green grass at the base of a large, leafy tree, setting up an easy tap-in. Even in winter, when the frosty grass crunches underfoot and the course is quiet, there's a unique beauty. The trees display those incredible autumn colors before the snow sets in, painting a stunning backdrop for each throw. It’s challenging, for sure, navigating the weather, but totally worth every one of the 9,290 minutes played. If you're thinking about trying disc golf, I can't recommend it enough. You don't need much to get started – just grab a few discs (a putter, a midrange, and a driver are a great start), find a local course, and embrace the journey. It's a sport that's accessible to everyone, incredibly rewarding, and a fantastic way to spend time outdoors. You might just find your new MILDG too!