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New disc golf course expected to attract more tourneys, visitors
McCOOK Neb. - A group of avid disc golf enthusiasts in McCook has recently gained approval to move forward with the construction of a new disc golf course in Barnett Park. The proposal, which has been in the works for several months, received overwhelming support from the City of McCook’s Parks Advisory Board following a presentation by the dedicated team on Monday, Jan. 29, 2024.
The initiative, spearheaded by individuals David Brewster, Caleb Taylor, Sean Wolfe, and Karen Kliment Thompson, began with discussions with City Staff regarding the feasibility of adding a disc golf course to Barnett Park. After multiple consultations to address concerns such as winter pond ice, proximity to existing facilities, and impact on park maintenance, the group secured funding assistance from Community Hospital and a grant from the Red Willow County Visitors Bureau to cover the $10,000 design cost. Of the city employees Brewster said “They’ve been more than supportive. It’s been awesome.”
The next step was to request approval from the McCook City Council. Brewster and Taylor presented the project at the Feb. 5, 2024 meeting and it was approved unanimously.
The proposed disc golf course at Barnett Park in McCook, as highlighted by Brewster, offers a multitude of benefits to both the local community and the broader region. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. Economic Impact:
- Hosting tournaments with over 200 participants from various states can bring significant economic benefits to McCook. Visitors spending days in town for these events contribute to the local economy by dining at restaurants, staying in hotels, shopping at stores, and purchasing gas, thereby boosting revenue for local businesses.
2. Community Enhancement:
- The new course caters to a diverse range of players, including older individuals, women, beginners, and those with physical limitations. By providing a more accessible and flat terrain that drains well even in wet conditions, the course ensures that more people can participate in the sport and enjoy outdoor activities. This promotes a healthy lifestyle and fosters community engagement.
3. Inclusivity and Accessibility:
- The design of the course with multiple tees and locations benefits players of all skill levels and physical abilities. It accommodates those who may find it challenging to navigate hilly or muddy terrains, making it a welcoming space for individuals regardless of age, gender, or experience level in disc golf.
4. Promotion of Outdoor Recreation:
- By introducing a new recreational opportunity in Barnett Park, the disc golf course encourages residents and visitors to engage in outdoor activities. This not only promotes physical fitness but also creates a space for social interaction and leisure in a natural setting.
The projected total cost for the Barnett Park Disc Golf Course is estimated to be around $30,000, with the committee committed to fundraising efforts to bridge the financial gap. Brewster said “There have been businesses coming forward and saying ‘We see a benefit to this, we want to advertise through it’” The course design was entrusted to Eric McCabe, a world-renowned Professional Disc Golf World Champion and course designer, known for his challenging and innovative courses across 28 states.
The newly approved course will become the second 18-hole disc golf course in the city, offering a different experience from the highly regarded Kelley Park Disc Golf Course, which rose to prominence since its establishment in 2006 and is currently ranked second in Nebraska. With the new Barnett Park course designed to cater to younger and less experienced players while still providing challenges for seasoned competitors, the hope is to expand the disc golf community in McCook and attract larger tournaments to the area.
The success of the existing Kelley Park course, with its reputation for well-manicured fairways, challenging layout, and impressive tournaments like the McCook Open, has significantly contributed to the growth of disc golf in the region. By introducing a new course that enhances the player experience and accommodates larger events, McCook aims to solidify its position as a premier disc golf destination in the Midwest. As preparations for the Barnett Park Disc Golf Course gain momentum, the future looks promising for both casual players and competitive disc golf enthusiasts in McCook and beyond.