Beacon blast, in the bag!
On a less-than-sunny August Bank Holiday in 2023, the Liverpool Disc Golf Community embarked on a monumental endeavour, hosting our very first Disc Golf Tournament, aptly named Beacon Blast 2023. Nestled within the serene confines of Beacon Country Park in Skelmersdale, this event was made possible through the generous support of West Lancashire Council.
Leading up to the tournament, the Liverpool Disc Golf team were tirelessly engaged in preparations; the days prior saw us in full swing, from the interminable mowing of the fairways, greens and paths, to constructing bridges over gullies, precisely marking out tee pads, crafting tee pad signs, determining distances for each hole etc.
The tournament itself unfolded into a day of disc golf success, attracting a total of 37 players who competed across 13 divisions. Notably, five participants ventured into their very first tournament experience, having been introduced to the sport through Liverpool Disc Golf's pop-up sessions. We were also delighted to have a full junior card who did really well with the long day and demands of the course.
Beacon Blast 2023 offered an array of holes, each presenting its unique set of challenges, catering to players of varying skill levels. The weather gods seemed to smile upon the event, providing more favourable conditions during the afternoon round, allowing players to bask in the breathtaking views surrounding the course.
We were absolutely buzzing to partner with LiveWell Health for our event. LiveWell Health are a provider of sports massage and therapy services. During the lunch break, LiveWell Health's skilled therapists offered players the opportunity to indulge in rejuvenating massages, providing a much-needed respite and relaxation before the challenging second round.
The feedback received throughout the day was overwhelmingly positive, with players applauding the distinct holes, and course layout, and expressing genuine interest in making this location a permanent home for disc golf in the region.
Feedback received from the day:
“I just wanted to say thank you to you and Laura for putting on an amazing tournament, I absolutely loved the variety of holes, area, backdrop etc. Nice to have some proper distance shots with elevation and some different directions along with some more technical lines. By far my favourite layout I have played to date.”
“Every dog walker we spoke to out there seemed interested in what we were doing and happy to engage, several stopped to watch and asked questions.”
“Thanks again to you, Dave, Laura and Eric- see you all soon I hope.”
"This is the best hole one I've played!"
"Great course, really challenging!"
Liverpool Disc Golf extends its heartfelt gratitude to the invaluable supporters and partners who made this tournament a resounding success.
Special acknowledgements go out to
Richard from Disc Golf UK, Ace Disc Golf and the BDGA (now EDGA) for their unwavering support, including additional baskets and a treasure trove of tournament wisdom.
Carole & UKWDGA offered constant support, motivation, and encouragement, not only for the tournament but also for our taster sessions.
Iain – National Director of EDGA & colleagues at Manchester Disc Golf Club were instrumental with their unceasing support, innovative ideas, and a wealth of disc golf knowledge.
Alfa Discs played a crucial role by providing assistance with prizes and standing by Liverpool Disc Golf from the very beginning.
Emma from West Lancashire Council played a pivotal role from the early morning setups to the final wrap-up as well as the staff at Coppice Café for allowing us to use the facilities early.
LiveWell Health for helping our players with some free sports massage before they headed out for the second round.
And let's not forget the dedicated volunteers who ensured the tournament's smooth operation, from setup to making the public aware of the festivities
Also a nod to our passing spectators who stopped to watch this amazing event and for their enthusiasm and positive feedback to the day.
Last but not least, Liverpool Disc Golf extends its profound appreciation to every single individual who participated in the tournament. Your invaluable feedback and unwavering support have laid the foundation for future events. Beacon Blast would not have been the resounding success it was without each and every one of you.
As the sun set on Beacon Blast 2023, Liverpool Disc Golf embarked on a journey marked by growth, togetherness, and a bright future for the sport in the region. Stay tuned for more exciting events and, perhaps, the realisation of a permanent disc golf haven ran by Liverpool Disc Golf.
