“If you build [the disc golf course], [they] will come”

MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Marquette may soon be a disc golfer’s paradise with the completion of a course dedicated in honor of a local legend and pioneer in the sport, Buck Buchanan.

The ‘Buck Buchanan Memorial Disc Golf Course”, which will cover about 80 acres, is expected to go next to the current Powder Mill Disc Golf Course on the north side of Marquette. The two courses will create the Dead River Disc Golf Center and will create a recreational hub in the region. The U.P. Disc Golf Association (UPDGA) was awarded a Public Spaces Community Places grant through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for 36,000.00. To receive the grant, the MEDC requires the recipient to match the grant amount, which is why the group is launching a crowdfunding campaign to raise money.

Tim Kopacz, president of the disc golf association told us they have applied every year since the grant was made available and are very hopeful in achieving local support. Explaining what they need to accomplish next he told us, “It runs for 60 days. As long as we meet our $36,000 goal, with, you know, generous community support, we’ll get that match and grant and we’ll be off and running, and then we’ll have a brand-new championship level course, and no time at all.”

The new course design has been created to meet the requirements of a championship level course while also providing layouts for first time throwers, having two sets of tees and baskets on each hole, making the sport inviting to anyone.

Kopacz says the grant can only further work of the organization and he said, “Our mission is to develop recreational opportunities and promote this more to disc golf. We want to build-new, new courses. We want to, you know, increase the amount of activities that locals have that they can enjoy. Also help bring in some tourism.”

Making this a disc golf destination for years to come will not only bring pleasure for those who participate, but it should also help benefit the local economy. And while benefiting the economy, Kopacz says it benefits participants with exercise and another public social outlet. He also added, “Good for the community. Provide free activities for the community to do and enjoy and just be outside, like we like to do here in Marquette.’

The crowdfunding campaign runs until May 30th and needs to reach $36,000 in order for the funds to be awarded. To find out how you can help reach this goal, go here.