‘Discovery Zone\u2019 designed to make fast-growing sport accessible and easier for beginners to try; ‘We hope residents and visitors will enjoy it for many years to come’<\/p>\n
A new $40,000 recreational amenity is giving residents and visitors another reason to get outside at one of Severn\u2019s busiest summer parks.<\/p>\n
The Township of Severn officially opened its first disc golf course Wednesday at Washago Centennial Park, unveiling a five-hole compact \u201cDisc Golf Discovery Zone\u201d designed for beginners, families and players of all ages and skill levels.<\/p>\n
Each hole is approximately 100 feet long and includes a designated tee area, target and instructional signage. QR codes on the signs connect users with videos explaining how to play each hole.<\/p>\n
Mayor Mike Burkett said the new course is another addition to the township\u2019s growing list of outdoor recreation opportunities.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt has been designed as a safe, fun and family-friendly space where people of all ages and skill levels can get active, spend time outdoors and try something new,\u201d he said during Wednesday\u2019s opening.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe course (is) … ideal for learning, practising and building confidence.\u201d<\/p>\n
Burkett said projects such as the new course can help make municipal parks more active, engaging and accessible while encouraging people to spend time outdoors with friends and family.<\/p>\n
Standing in the expansive waterfront park on Lake Couchiching, the mayor also described the property as a \u201chidden gem.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are pleased to officially open the Washago Centennial Park Disc Golf Discovery Zone, and we hope residents and visitors will enjoy it for many years to come,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The project took about a year to complete from start to finish.<\/p>\n
Craig Belfry, Severn\u2019s director of recreation, parks and facilities, said the idea came from his previous experience installing disc golf amenities while working for another municipality.<\/p>\n
He brought the concept to Severn\u2019s Culture and Recreation Advisory Committee as the township looked for another way to increase activity in the park.<\/p>\n
\u201cI thought it was a good add,\u201d Belfry said.<\/p>\n
The township has already added other recreational amenities in recent years, including a sport court and beach volleyball.<\/p>\n
\u201c(We\u2019re) just trying to get more activity, and it is such a great green space that we have here,\u201d Belfry said.<\/p>\n
He described Washago Centennial Park as Severn\u2019s busiest park during the summer. The waterfront property also includes a beach and boat docking facilities.<\/p>\n
\u201cRecreation is something we want to see all of our residents enjoy,\u201d he said. \u201cYou get outside, you feel better.\u201d<\/p>\n