The Kayak Point Disc Golf Club at Marine Dr. in Stanwood proved an illuminating field trip on August 16th. Molly Beeman, Snohomish County Director of Energy and Sustainability, and Jay Trevor, Park Ranger, led Vicki and Scott Roberts-Glasser with Joan Smith to the expansive club house. The entry fountains had been turned on for our benefit. The Disc Golf Club encompasses over 300 acres of preserved, forested terrain. The park has incorporated sustainable practices not usually seen within the business of a typical golf course. This park is a blend of park land and a recreational business. To initiate us, Molly pointed to one of the front areas as a free section for beginners and children and the basket that acts as the target for those engaged in the game. Gathered around a table inside the club house, Keith Lioneddie, innovator and manager for the Disc Golf Course, described his vision for its use.
Disc golf is growing in popularity, both nationally and internationally. He showed a poster board of national and world maps, filled with stick pins from visitors. Tournament and league play provide steady sources of revenue. Keith recounted enthusiasts who came out throughout damp or snowy winter months. He said a recent Recreation Conservation Organization grant has allowed him to raise the number of courses available to five. Baskets are located strategically along fairways that hold snares to the discs – trees, a creek, a large lake. The courses are becoming known and desirable for tournament play. Keith sees no problem in hosting large groups, including spectators. The clubhouse, too, boasts a restaurant and pro shop with colorful discs for sale. The restaurant Aces BBQ is open only on weekends at the present time, but soft drinks and sandwiches are available in the pro shop. For a finale, Keith gave the three of us a golf cart tour! This was truly a not-to-be-missed event that was sorely missed by many. We may consider a redo for next year.