A Year of Triumphs and Camaraderie: Quinte Disc Golf Association's 2023 Review
QDGA members at the trash bash event.
As the sun sets on another year, it’s time to reflect on the triumphs, camaraderie, and memorable moments that made 2023 an exceptional year for the Quinte Disc Golf Association (QDGA). Established in April 2022, this vibrant club has been steadily growing, and 2023 marked its second year of success, boasting a membership of 62 avid disc golfers throughout the year.
The heartbeat of any disc golf club is its events, and QDGA delivered in spades. From the adrenaline-fueled competition of the Rumble Round 2 to the dynamic challenge of the Quinte Quest 1, and the enigmatic thrill of the Infinite Discs Mystery Challenge, members were treated to a diverse array of tournaments that tested their skills and brought the community together.
But it wasn’t just about competition. QDGA knows how to have fun too. Events like the whimsical Snow Round in March, the exhilarating Doubles and Singles League matches, the environmentally-conscious Earth Day Trash Bash, and the joyous celebration of the Course Anniversary and Annual Christmas Banquet provided ample opportunities for members to bond and create lasting memories.
The course itself underwent transformations, evolving along with the club. Trial runs of different starting holes for events and leagues kept things fresh, while the removal of fallen trees and strategic clearing around certain holes challenged disc golfers to adapt their playstyles and discover new lines (and new not-so-lines) to the basket. These changes not only enhanced the course’s aesthetics but also added layers of complexity to the game, ensuring that no round was ever the same.
One of the highlights of the year was the friendly rivalry that blossomed between QDGA and the newly minted Limestone City Disc Golf Club in Kingston. As members engaged in spirited competition, friendships were forged, and bonds were strengthened, proving once again that disc golf is not just a game but a community.
Of course, no year is complete without its champions, and QDGA members shone brightly on the competitive stage. Carter Yeomans claimed victory in the MA1 Championship at the Ontario Provincial Championship, showcasing the skill and dedication of QDGA’s players. Paul Mabee’s third-place finish in the MP50+ category further solidified the club’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the disc golf scene.
As the torch passes to a new executive and coordinators, the future looks bright for QDGA. With a commitment to growth, excellence, and leadership in the Eastern Ontario disc golf community, the club is poised to build upon the successes of 2023 and write new chapters of achievement in the years to come.
In retrospect, 2023 was more than just a year—it was a journey of triumphs, friendships, and shared passion. And as QDGA looks ahead at the basket, one thing is certain: the best is yet to come.