Disc golf professionals come to town

Memorial Day weekend, like most three-day weekends, are filled with possibilities. Barbecues, picnics and camping are all traditional avenues for these weekends, but something exciting and new should be given a shot as well.

The eighth annual Beaver State Fling, one of professional disc golf’s most anticipated events, will be held from May 28–30 at Milo McIver State Park in Estacada. The amateur weekend will be held from June 4–6.

The Beaver State Fling attracts top-level players from all over the U.S., and has been on the national tour of the Professional Disc Golf Association since 2005. McIver features two 18-hole courses, one on the park’s east  side and another on its west, each offering a challenging experience for any player.

There will be extra events during the weekend to entertain the crowds, including a mini-disc golf course, a putting competition and a skills contest. Numerous vendors and sponsors will have booths set up for informational and retail purposes.

Senior Tony Skrivanek, who will compete in the Advanced Amateur division with fellow student Aaron Ray, said he has been busy this week welcoming the visiting players.

“It’s been fun playing with some of the best players in the world who are in town for the Beaver State Fling,” Skrivanek said.

Graduate student Steve “Pop” Tufty will be the only one from Portland State’s Disc Golf Club competing during the professional weekend. Tufty will take part in the grandmasters division, a level designated for players aged 50 and above.

The event starts early Friday morning and finishes with the award distribution on Sunday evening. Most of the participants who aren’t from the local area camp in the park for the event and have to make reservations months in advance for a space.

With the long stretch of rain that has been hitting the Portland area, the event looks to luck out with the only clear days on Saturday and Sunday. Rain or shine, the event will be a great time for the long weekend ahead.

Beaver State Fling
Milo McIver State Park
May 28–30, June 4–6
www.beaverstatefling.com
PSU Disc Golf Club information:
www.pdx.edu/recreation/discgolf