Introduction to the New Disc Golf Course in Portland
On May 19, the city of **Portland** unveiled a newly installed **nine-hole disc golf course** at **Payson Park**. This exciting development was prompted by the dedication of a local group, which volunteered its time to clean up the area and construct necessary physical features for the course. The local community’s enthusiasm for the sport has resulted in the creation of a space dedicated to recreational activity and social engagement.
The Driving Force Behind the Course
The initiative was spearheaded by **Adam and Mae McHugh** from **Scarborough**, along with **Matt Carroll** from **Portland**. Together, they represent **Joyswich**, a community-driven organization aimed at promoting disc golf in the area. Initially, the group had aspirations of establishing a permanent course in **Deering Oaks** but found that **Payson Park** emerged as a more suitable option based on suggestions from the **Portland Department of Parks, Recreation, & Facilities**.
Finding the Course
Locating the new disc golf course is straightforward for newcomers. Visitors can enter **Payson Park** via the **Arboretum Road entrance** off **Ocean Avenue** and will find the baskets to the left. Alternatively, if entering from **Baxter Boulevard onto Inlet Road**, they should also look to the left to see the course. Clear signage and pathways guide players through this serene environment, ensuring a smooth transition into the sport.
Funding and Materials
One of the most noteworthy accomplishments of this project is the acquisition of the **metal baskets**, which were won as a result of a contest organized by **Dynamic Discs**. These baskets, typically valued around **$4,000**, came at no cost to the group, significantly mitigating the financial burden of the project. Multiple discs have also been graciously donated and will soon be available for public use once a **kiosk** is installed. The city generously covered a majority of the building materials, but Adam McHugh contributed personal funds, bringing the total project expenditure to approximately **$2,000**.
Volunteer Efforts
Community participation has been key to the success of this disc golf course. The McHughs, along with Carroll and other volunteers, dedicated their time to construct **three bridges** and **two staircases**, alongside the distribution of **5 cubic yards of stone** to create paths within the course. McHugh noted that employing volunteer labor helped save several hundred dollars in costs. Additionally, plans for another bridge are currently underway, further enhancing the course’s accessibility.
Course Navigation and Features
In approximately one month, **signage** will be installed at each hole to guide players through the course effectively. For those who want to plot their progress, a detailed map of the **Payson Park course** can soon be found on the popular **UDisc app**. This app not only provides maps but also assists players in keeping score during their games, adding an interactive layer to the experience.
Joyswich and Its Community Initiatives
Formed in **2021**, **Joyswich**—an acronym for “*joy and solitude within camping and hiking*”—has evolved in various ways to support the local disc golf community. Initially aiming to establish a location in **Westbrook** or **Gorham**, the group pivoted to running **disc golf putting leagues** at local breweries and venues such as **Bayside Bowl**. They also facilitate pop-up disc golf events and have been integral in women’s clinics and educational programs at **Gorham Middle School**.
Upcoming Events and Tournaments
Recently, Joyswich has been hosting **32 pop-up 18-hole disc golf tournaments**, free of charge, over the weekends in both **Deering Oaks** and **Payson Park**. Looking ahead, McHugh announced plans for additional events, with two or three set for Deering Oaks Park this year. Instructional clinics tailored for all skill levels are also on the agenda for this summer, alongside regular **Singles Night** every Tuesday at **5 PM**, where enthusiasts can gather to enjoy the sport.
The Growth of Disc Golf in Maine
Disc golf continues to gain traction in **Maine**, boasting more than a dozen courses across southern and central regions of the state. As interest swells, venues like the new **Payson Park course** offer welcoming spaces for both newcomers and seasoned players to engage in friendly competition and community-building activities.
Conclusion
The establishment of the disc golf course at **Payson Park** exemplifies the power of community collaboration in fostering recreational spaces. With dedicated volunteers and passionate leadership, Joyswich has made significant strides in promoting this engaging sport, ensuring that disc golf will be an increasingly popular activity in **Portland** and beyond.