Disc golf growth continues to gain traction in Portage la Prairie, as a community-driven project that began more than a decade ago evolves into a well-used recreational feature with provincial recognition and steady local engagement.
Cody Buhler, chairman of the Portage la Prairie Disc Golf Club, reflects on how a grassroots idea has developed into a lasting addition to Island Park, drawing in players of all ages and experience levels.
2025 Tournament trophy winner
“It’s hard to believe, but it’s been over 10 years that we’ve had disc golf in Portage now. I started this project back in 2013 and 2014, getting the idea off the ground, and we officially got the course into Island Park in 2015. It has grown a lot since then, and it’s been a really nice addition to the community,” Buhler explains.
Buhler notes the course has become a regular destination for schools and families, offering a simple and accessible outdoor activity.
2025 Tournament
“We’ve seen so many schools using it on a regular basis, whether it’s for gym classes or even just end-of-year field trips. It’s something they can do together as a group, and it’s been really encouraging to see that kind of use,” he says.
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Course design offers challenge
The Island Park course continues to stand out among others in Manitoba, particularly for its layout and level of difficulty.
“Our course is nine baskets, but with 18 different starting points, so you can play it like a full 18 hole course. It’s very technical compared to a lot of others because of how many trees we have. It’s challenging, and we get a lot of positive feedback because of that,” Buhler notes.
Beyond casual play, the course has also established itself as a competitive venue, hosting tournaments that draw participants from across the province.
“We’ve held a tournament every year since the course started, and it has grown over time. We moved from a one day event to a two day event, and we even bring in temporary baskets to expand to a full 18 holes. We’re part of the Manitoba Disc Golf Tour, so it’s one of the stops players look forward to each summer,” he adds.
Popularity continues to rise
Interest in disc golf has surged in recent years, both locally and globally, with Buhler pointing to increased accessibility and broader awareness.
“We’re seeing it grow a lot, not just across Manitoba, but here in Portage too. There are places now where you can buy discs locally, and every time I go out, I see people playing that I don’t even know. They’ve just picked it up on their own, and it’s been great to see that momentum continue,” Buhler says.
Cody Buhler right
He traces the sport’s growth from its early roots to a major surge during the pandemic.
“Disc golf has been around since the 1970s, but it really started to grow more around 2015 and 2016 in Manitoba as more courses were built. Then during COVID, it really exploded worldwide. It became hard to find discs because so many people were playing. That growth has continued since then,” he explains.
Tournament and community involvement ahead
Looking forward, the club is preparing for its annual summer tournament, which carries official recognition within the sport.
“We’re planning our tournament again in August, and it’s a PDGA sanctioned event. That means your results count toward your rating if you’re a member, so it’s recognized on an international level. We’re really looking forward to it,” Buhler continues.
Registration details will be shared through the club’s online presence, where organizers are also encouraging broader community participation.
“Registration will open in a couple of months, and that will all be posted on our Facebook page. That’s the best place to find updates on the course and what we’re doing. We’re always looking for new members, and we’d love to hear ideas from anyone interested in growing the sport locally,” he adds.