Corbin officials to celebrate opening of disc golf course Friday

Corbin is now home to one of only 19 disc golf courses in the state of Kentucky – part of a game that is quickly growing in popularity, and one local officials say just about anyone can play.

Current installed in Miller Park, off Barton Mill Road, Corbin’s nine-hold disc golf course is the newest in series of courses in Kentucky and Tennessee. Marlon Sams, the city’s Director of Parks and Recreation, said Tuesday that Corbin’s course cost about $10,000 – $5,000 provided by the Corbin Tourism and Convention Commission, $5,000 approved the city Board of Commissioners.

"It’s just like regular golf as far as the rules go, but instead of clubs and whatever you use these Frisbee like discs," he said. "It’s a great game and it’s a lot cheaper than golf. You don’t have to wear any special shoes or anything like that. I think people will really like this."

Sams said the Parks and Recreation Department decided to utilize a little used portion of Miller Park that formerly contained an obstacle course that had fallen into disrepair. With a bit of clearing and some work setting up the course, the project was complete. He got the idea for the course when he attended a recreation conference last November.

"This was really the big hit," Sams said. "They had one set up and it was real popular."

Each "tee off" point consists of a concrete pad. Disc golfers use different discs – typically one each for long range, medium range and short range – and throw toward baskets set up around the course. Each of the "holes" is par three, making Corbin’s entire course a par 27 affair.

The course was designed by disc golf guru H.B. Clark (www.bluegrassdiscgolf.org).

"We kind of practiced on it with Mr. Clark," said Lonnie Isom, one of three Parks and Recreation maintenance workers who helped build the course. Cody Petrey and Eric Jones were also involved.

"I’ve never played golf in my life, but I had a good time doing this. It’s very interesting. He beat me pretty good."

Sams said the disc sets used for the game could be purchased or ordered through local sporting goods stores for about $39.

City officials plan to hold a grand opening ceremony for the course this Friday at 10:00 a.m. at Miller Park. The public is invited to attend.