SEBASTIAN — It appears that disc golf will be the next new item on Sebastian’s recreational menu. Recreation Superintendent Chris McCarthy reported to the Parks and Rec Committee Monday, describing preliminary plans for the family-friendly sport, to be located on Schumann Island in Stormwater Park.
Billed as “a new revenue generator for parks, camps, golf courses, schools and other venues,” and “an environmentally friendly sport that leaves a nominal footprint,” disc golf has similar rules to traditional golf, but uses “high-tech flying discs” (aka Frisbees) and above-ground baskets.
Ever since Sebastian resident and professional disc golfer Bala Haesseler appeared before the Committee last July to suggest bringing the sport to Sebastian, McCarthy has been conducting research and visiting nearby disc golf facilities, including the popular disc golf facility at Wickham Park in Brevard County.
McCarthy described the proposed location as “open on the south end, wooded to the north,” and said the City would do some clearing, especially of the invasive pepper trees, adding that disc golfers do enjoy a more natural habitat.
In July, he had estimated the cost to be no more than a modest $20,000. At the Apr. 27 meeting, he explained that although the “holes” are often cement pads, because a cement truck cannot access the proposed location, “we save a lot of money,” and indoor/outdoor carpet or flagstones would serve just as well.
McCarthy said there will be “a good buffer area between the lake and the trees,” and improvements will included benches along the course.
Several local disc golf enthusiasts as well as the treasurer and the president of the Brevard County facility addressed the committee in support of the project. Each recommended that it would be best to start with a 9-hole course, rather than 18, keeping expansion an option for the future.
Clearing work is expected to begin within the next two to three weeks.
“The City Manager wants this on the fast track,” McCarthy told the Committee.
