Disc Golf Society raises funds to complete new course west of Nelson
By The Nelson Daily Sports
The Nelson Disc Golf Society, gearing up to begin play this summer on a permanent 18-hole disc golf course on 22 acres of land off Blewett Road midway between Nelson and Castlegar, has started a GoFundMe campaign to assist with the development.
The Nelson Disc Golf Society, working with Teck Metals and BC Hydro for the use of the land next to the remote control airplane strip near the Kootenay Canal, said the "Paradise" course is now approved and pads and baskets are being installed for play to begin soon.
“This will be the lowest-elevation course in the West Kootenays and will be playable for FREE 24 hours a day, seven days a week 365 days a year,” the Nelson Disc Golf Society GoFundMe page post said.
The goal of the Nelson Disc Golf Society is to build a vibrant multi-generational disc golf community throughout the West Kootenays, with courses accessible from every town.
“We want to build a regional disc golf scene that includes multiple annual tournaments and events, provides programming for youth, and attracts players from other parts of Canada to visit our local courses,” Nelson Disc Golf Society said.
“We want to support competitive players and encourage the growth of the next generation of athletes.
“We want to encourage new people try disc golf, and strive to develop a disc golf community that is open to all people.”
The new location is south-facing site, and gets lots of afternoon sun with prevailing moderate winds.
The image shows the proposed 18-hole Kootenay Canal Disc Golf Course map located 20 kilometers west of Nelson on Blewett Road. — Screenshot photo
“This course has something for everyone, and planned future development of alternate tee-pad and basket placements will further enhance the value of this course for both casual players and professionals,” Nelson Disc Golf Society said.
Nelson Disc Golf Society said the course layout will offer a variety of open and guarded shots playing uphill and downhill that is designed for both professional level competition and long term re-play value for the local community.
Nelson Disc Golf Society said new players will enjoy frequent 'aceable' holes featuring significant downhill elevation lines; and advanced players will enjoy testing their distance on long 'bomber' shots.
The GoFundMe campaign is hoping to raise $12,000 that will provide free daily use for the public.
“Ongoing land use fees, property taxes, maintenance and insurance costs are significant, and NDGS must establish this required funding before opening the course,” Nelson Disc Golf Society said.
“(The) money will help open this course to the public.”
“This is a very dedicated group of folks with a vision for community activity,” said Regional District of Central Kootenay Area E Director Ramona Faust.
The Nelson Disc Golf Society currently operates a nine-hole course in the Art Gibbon’s Park next to the Rosemont Skatepark in Nelson.
