The Sandy Hollow Open has been made an amateur only event since 2022 to celebrate and support the amateur disc golf community in Ontario. Our commitment to providing an unparalleled experience for ama ...
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The Sandy Hollow Open has been made an amateur only event since 2022 to celebrate and support the amateur disc golf community in Ontario. Our commitment to providing an unparalleled experience for amateur players stems from a keen observation of the regional disc golf landscape, which historically has seen Open divisions receiving significant focus at many events, sometimes at the expense of the amateur divisions.
Our aim with the Sandy Hollow Open is to shift this balance and create an event that places amateur players at the forefront, ensuring they receive the attention and support they deserve. By not including Open divisions, we're able to allocate resources more effectively towards enhancing the amateur experience. This includes, but is not limited to, offering substantial merchandise payouts (merch outs) and ensuring that the top 45% of players across all divisions are rewarded for their skills and dedication. Additionally, we take pride in presenting proper trophies to the top three players in each division, a practice we feel is vital for acknowledging achievements and fostering a competitive yet friendly atmosphere.
It's also worth noting that the amateur side of the sport, particularly in Ontario, represents a significant portion of the competitive disc golf scene. The rapid rate at which amateur division spots are filled during registration periods highlights the demand and enthusiasm for amateur-focused events. By dedicating the Sandy Hollow Open to amateur players, we're able to accommodate over 160 enthusiasts in a single weekend, an opportunity that would be considerably constrained if Open divisions were included.
Furthermore, the design and layout of the Sandy Hollow Disc Golf Course are tailored more towards providing an engaging and challenging experience for amateur players. Historical data from past events that included Open division players has shown that the course may not present the level of challenge expected at the professional level, which has also informed our decision.
We understand and respect the competitive spirit of MPO and FPO players and would like to clarify that there are no restrictions preventing them from participating in our event within the MA1 or FA1 divisions, in accordance with PDGA guidelines for C-Tier events. This allows players from all backgrounds to enjoy the competition and camaraderie that the Sandy Hollow Open is known for.
We hope this explanation sheds light on our approach and the values that drive the organization of the Sandy Hollow Open. Our goal is to celebrate the spirit of disc golf, promote inclusivity, and ensure that every participant leaves with memorable experiences. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you to the Sandy Hollow Open, whether as a competitor or a supporter of this wonderful community.
Warmest regards,
Chris Thompson
Tournament Director, Sandy Hollow Open
