How to play ‘Ring of Fire’ in disc golf

Putting games.

They’re a good time.

For as much fun as they are, though …

I can only think of one that works with 100-plus people.

Ring of Fire.

If post-round scores are still being calculated or awards are being organized after an event’s done, any disc golfer from any division can play – and at the exact same time, to boot.

Before you keep reading, do keep in mind that there are a number of variations to Ring of Fire. So if something doesn’t feel quite right to you, it might just be that it’s played somewhat differently in your neck of the woods. Traditionally, however, here’s how it unfolds …

To start, everyone who wants to participate stands 30 feet and some change from the basket in a giant circle – with the basket being smack-dab in the middle of them, of course. You’re free to adjust this distance however you see best fit, but somewhere near circle’s edge is the norm.

Then, on the count of three, everyone putts at the same time. If you made yours, retrieve your putter and return to where you were. If you didn’t, stay put – you’ll get your disc later. Yet again, on the count of three, the exercise repeats itself. Round after round, the process continues as many times as necessary, until only one disc golfer successfully converts his (or her) putt.

Winner, winner. Chicken dinner.

Congrats: You’ve nabbed a disc, cash, coupons or, if you’re lucky … 

A free chicken dinner.

Here’s Ezra Robinson taking down a game of Ring of Fire …

This should help connect the dots in your head:

But wait …

In any given round, what happens if nobody makes their putt?

You’ve got two options:

• The remaining disc golfers retrieve their discs and putt again – not as fun.
• As punishment, everyone is brought back, and the game starts over – way fun.

Opt for the latter.

I’d also add that, if you’re a drone enthusiast, Ring-of-Fire visuals are epic. Sure, it’s a short putting game, but it’s a blast. Take note, tournament directors: CTPs are great, but do this, too.

Thanks in advance.

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Editor’s Suggestions:

• Disc golf: Ignore most anything under a 10 mph wind
• Disc golf: Why you should start flicking understable discs
• How many putters is too many for a tourney practice basket?

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