Glow disc golf is dumb.
Well, that’s what I used to think, at least …
When I first started playing, I didn’t understand how anybody could become so obsessed with something that they couldn’t go without doing it at night. As time wore on, however, disc golf became an addiction. And once the weather got cooler, and the days became shorter …
I understood.
Now, as a normal, nine-to-five dude, my frisbee fix needs satisfying – especially after work. For as much as I’d like the spring and summer months to drag on forever, Utah’s weather continues to do its own thing. Fortunately, glow rounds help me unwind when my brain needs it most.
New to D.G. under the cover of darkness?
Here are four ways to get the most out of it:
1. Bring fewer discs
It’s fun to buy new discs …
I get it.
But you DON’T need a “glow-only” bag.
In fact, I’d argue that – to get the most enjoyment out of your glow rounds – the fewer frisbees you bring along, the better. For starters, most glow rounds take place at a course you’re familiar with. Because if you think it’s hard to navigate a new course, try it out during the dead of night.
You’ve been there before; you know what’s needed.
Next, even if you possessed the ability to do it, your chances of setting a course record by the light of the moon are razor-thin. In and of itself, hauling 25-plus glow discs out to your local stomping grounds is a production. Keep things simple. Focus on fun. Play better.
Fewer discs make it happen.
2. Opt for a UV blacklight LED flashlight
Jot this down:
UV Blacklight LED Flashlight > Normal Flashlight
This is the case when investigating triple homicides, as well as disc golfing under a blanket of stars. I don’t know why, but glow plastic “pops” when given the blacklight treatment. I’m sure it has something to do with prisms, light waves and color spectrums, but I’m fine with ignorance.
All I know is my Pro Color Glow Roc3 lights up like the Bellagio when I go all blacklight on it. Do bring a regular flashlight along for the ride, though. The UV blacklight stuff works great on discs, but it’s trash for making your way around a course. You need BOTH for a solid outing.
3. Work glow plastic into your everyday bag
I’m a creature of habit …
This extends to the disc golf course.
The bag I use for nearly all of my disc golf rounds has multiple glow discs in it. I do this on purpose, because – even though my glow rounds tend to be a bit more laid-back – I like to be at least somewhat effective with my practice hours. The discs I spend the most time with are the ones I’m confident in during tournament play. If they glow, I’m able to toss ‘em year-round.
It works for Garrett “Color Glow” Guthrie …
Why not you?
4. Bring two (or more) towels with you – every time
My three biggest fears in life:
- Fear No. 1 – I’m scared of snakes.
- Fear No. 2 – I’m terrified of the nosebleed section.
- Fear No. 3 – I’m mortified at the thought of throwing wet discs.
I could shoot 650-rated golf, soil myself and straight-up “Kevin Ware” my tibia out on the course, but as long as I haven’t thrown a wet disc, I’m chalking the round up to a success …
I hate wet plastic THAT much.
No, not every glow round is damp, but with many of ‘em taking place out in the cold, it’s not uncommon for rain, snow or dewy grass to wreak havoc on your grip – bring towels with you.
Bonus points if they’re microsuede DewFly Towels from Innova …
Those things don’t mess around.
Embrace the darkness …
This is certainly a low point for the blog …
But here’s a Kenny Chesney quote:
“When the sun goes down, we’ll be feelin’ alright.”
Amen to that, Kenneth.
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