In the world of disc golf, a sport that has seen a remarkable surge in popularity, Vancouver is at a crossroads. The city's disc golf community is calling for action, demanding that the Vancouver Park Board address the growing pains that come with this newfound enthusiasm.
The Rise of Disc Golf in Vancouver
Corey McKennelley, a member of the Van City United Disc Golf Club, has witnessed the club's membership skyrocket from a mere 50 in 2018 to over 200 today. This boom in popularity, however, has led to crowded courses, creating challenges and conflicts.
A Plan for Improvement
On July 13, 2026, the Vancouver Park Board will vote on a disc golf plan that aims to alleviate these issues. The proposed plan includes expanding the course at Queen Elizabeth Park from nine to 18 holes, reducing the number of holes at Quilchena Park, and creating a clearer separation between disc golf areas and other park activities.
The Park Board's public engagement process, conducted in September 2025, revealed that a significant 68% of respondents had experienced conflicts at these parks. These conflicts range from people cutting through courses to dogs interfering with play, and in rare cases, individuals being struck by discs.
The Need for Safety and Accessibility
Marti Doucet, the president of the Van City United Disc Golf Club, emphasizes the lack of maintenance and updates to these courses since their inception in the early 2000s. Laura Christensen, who brought the motion to the board in 2024, highlights the importance of improved signage and education to reduce conflicts.
The city of North Vancouver provides an example of how to address these concerns. After resident complaints about disc golf at Eastview Park, the city reconfigured the course to prevent discs from crossing walking paths. This demonstrates a successful balance between accommodating the sport and ensuring the safety of park users.
A Call for Action
McKennelley's plea for Vancouver to "make it easy to play the game" reflects the disc golf community's desire for accessible and safe spaces. With the sport's popularity on the rise, it's crucial for cities to adapt and provide the necessary infrastructure to support this growing community.
A Broader Perspective
The disc golf phenomenon in Vancouver is a microcosm of a larger trend: the resurgence of outdoor sports and activities. As cities grapple with how to accommodate these trends, it's essential to strike a balance between promoting active lifestyles and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all park users.
In my opinion, this story highlights the importance of community engagement and the need for cities to be responsive to the changing needs of their residents. It's a reminder that, while sports bring people together, they must also be mindful of the potential challenges and conflicts that can arise.
As we await the outcome of the Vancouver Park Board's vote, one thing is clear: the future of disc golf in Vancouver will be shaped by the decisions made today.
