Fun is Par for Course

Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Cheryl Dilgard | Dan Stevens prepares to try and get a disc-in-one on the new disc golf course in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on May 27. Despite rain Stevens and friends go out for a round of disc golf. JTF Guantanamo conducts safe and humane care and custody of detained enemy combatants. The JTF conducts interrogation operations to collect strategic intelligence in support of the global war on terror and supports law enforcement and war crimes investigations. JTF Guantanamo is committed to the safety and security of American service members and civilians working inside its detention facilities.  

05.30.2008

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Cheryl Dilgard 

Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

By Cheryl Dilgard
Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – Despite Sunday afternoon's downpour, disc golfers were out playing the game. Although the course has not had an official grand opening, as soon as the course equipment was put into place folks started heading to the course with Frisbees in hand.

"People starting going to play disc golf even before we got the field mowed," said John Tully, Morale Welfare and Recreation operations manager.

Disc golf is a growing sport throughout the United States and even boasts both amateur and professional teams. Here in Guantanamo the sport is also growing in popularity. Many have never played before, but are curious about the sport.

"I haven't had a chance to play yet, but I am definitely going to first chance I get," said Chris Ellis. "It looks like fun."

Others have played for years and bring their enthusiasm to the course.

"I got into disc golf because I used to play Ultimate Frisbee," said Liam Walsh. "Now I have been playing [disc golf] for five years. It's a lot of fun."

Future plans for the disc golf course include adding a permanent tent structure behind the Lateral Hazard golf shop, along with seating. The completion of the complex – which includes the disc golf course, the traditional golf course, the maintenance/cart shed, and the new Lateral Hazard golf shop – will allow golfers an opportunity to relax with a cold beverage under the shade after a round of golf or disc golf.

• Date Taken: 05.30.2008
• Date Posted: 06.05.2008 09:26
• Story ID: 20133