The 5 best sounds in disc golf

This article idea was sent in by a reader …

I love it.

Disc golf isn’t super sensorial. Obviously, sight plays a big role, but that’s hardly unique to disc golf. Feel is a big one, too. Think of how often disc golfers talk about the “in-hand feel” of a frisbee. Taste is limited to DoubleG Craft Jerky. And there’s not much in the way of smell, either. That is, unless the card behind you is having a bit more fun than they should …

That leaves us with hearing.

It should be noted the top-five list I’ve come up with is limited to the amateur game. Obviously, hearing your name called out over the loudspeaker at Winthrop Gold would be legendary. And taking in the roar of a European gallery after a clutch putt would be unforgettably epic, too.

But for most of us, that’s not all that common …

Here’s what is:

1. The (blind) smashing of chains

The obvious sound of disc golf is a putter smashing chains. Whether it be from 15 feet or 55 feet, the sound is music to the ears of disc golfers of all skill levels – it’s addicting. Hoops fanatics will claim the swoosh of a nothing-but-net bucket takes the cake, but chains are tough to beat.

I’m BIG on this …

But let’s add some detail.

Aces or throw-ins lead to a louder, more aggressive-sounding chain-hit. But even better than the long-range throw you can visually track is the one you can’t – I’m talking about blind holes. Unable to see the end result, the thrill of unexpectedly rattled chains is awesome …

It’s better this way.

2. Warm weather is upon us …

Stationed in Utah, I’m a sucker for warmth. This winter was longer than most – it felt like it’d never end. Now that spring is full-blown upon us, I welcome the sounds of warmer weather:

• Sound No. 1 – Birds.
• Sound No. 2 – Cicadas.
• Sound No. 3 – Mowers.
• Sound No. 4 – Children.

Great weather means longer days; longer days mean more after-work disc golf.

Yes, please.

3. The sound of silence

Paul Simon. Art Garfunkel.

In moderation, people are great and all …

But disc golf is just as good without them.

Show up to your local course early on a Saturday morning, and it’s the sound of virtually nothing at all that’ll instantly transport you to your happy place. Alone, it’s easier to be intentional with your play. With nobody else around, it really is a one-on-one battle with the disc golf course.

It’s also relaxing.

4. The hit-and-stick

You might not’ve expected this one to make the cut …

The thud of a hit-and-stick is normally the result of a spike-hyzer or an overhand huck. When colliding with soft-ish soil, the disc will tombstone. It’s a more muted sound, but it’s plenty satisfying. And when hitting hardpan, the collision sounds far more violent, yet still fun.

* Note: It was either this or the sound of a disc rocketing off OB pavement back into play.

5. ‘Parked’

Oftentimes, a cardmate will walk ahead of the group to get a good look at his disc – maybe he’s hunting for it or something. While searching for his own, he’ll call back to you with a message:

“Dude, you’re parked.”

One word. One syllable. One putt.

It’s music to the ears: Stress-free birdies are best.

Any iteration of golf is not usually noisy.

And where there is some sort of audible commotion, it’s often annoying …

Looking at you, Mr. Bluetooth Speaker.

These five sounds, though?

They’re ALWAYS welcome.

Have anything to add? Take to Twitter to let us know – we’ll actually (for real) get back to you.

Editor’s Suggestions:

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• The argument for an all-premium plastic disc golf bag
• Disc golf: 3 tips for consistent approaches from 200 feet

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