Big Run Course Update
We brought the community together for a one-day pop-up tournament to showcase what a course at Big Run could look like. The turnout was incredible, proving there’s strong support and demand for disc golf in this park once again. This also let us get some player data on how difficult the course is that we used to make the necessary adjustments.
We're currently working with city officials and parks staff to gain formal approval for a permanent disc golf course. With the local Park Director, onboard with our proof of concept design, we presented the formal layout to Columbus Parks and Rec at the end of May. From here, there's more design details and approvals from the city government.
Overall, the layout seems doable. We'll need to build 3 bridges, tear out acres of honeysuckle, and make some walking paths. We'll also need to build a topographical map showing the exact locations of the pins and pads.
If all goes well, we should have this step completed by Fall 2025
Once we get the detailed course layout approved, it's time to do the work. The standard rule is that all work done at the park will need to be completed by the parks employees or approved list of contractors. We're working on a different solution so that we're able to build this course ourselves but time will tell. We'll also start reaching out to several local businesses to get additional funding for teesigns and concrete for pads.
When we get the greenlight on construction and if we have the funds, the installation step should take about a month's time.
After installation, we’ll host a launch event to celebrate the course's return and thank everyone involved. We’ll also work on maintenance plans and community partnerships to keep the course in great shape for years to come. This course's success will require a long term commitment from the community.
Designing the future
If you've been a part of the Columbus disc golf scene for a while, you’ve probably heard of Big Run Disc Golf Course. Back in the '90s and 2000s, this course was a staple—known for its challenging layout, scenic fairways, and a reputation that made it a must-play destination for golfers.
Unfortunately, for many reasons, Big Run was removed, leaving a void in the local disc golf community. This was a letter sent to the Parks group asking the course be removed.
Vision to Restore Big Run
For months now, Dylan and I have been working hard behind the scenes to bring Big Run back. This course holds so much history, and we know how much it would mean to have a permanent, thoughtfully designed layout return to this iconic space. Our journey started with conversations—with the city, with local players, and with golfers who, like us, have a passion for revitalizing this course.
Here's an original Map of the course layout from the 90's courtesy of Mike Gates.
Veterans Memorial was the last, new 18 hole course installed in Central Ohio back in 2021. Let's work to change that.
A Sneak Peek at the Course
We recently visited Big Run and put together a short video to give you a preview of what some of the holes will look like. We want to build anticipation for the tournament while giving everyone a glimpse of the beautiful terrain and creative lines we’re planning. It’s a mix of nostalgia and excitement—seeing this space come alive with discs flying again.
Course Highlights
Some quick facts on the new course design
New Park Installation
A permanent course will take over a year in working with Columbus Parks. There's many different approvals that we'll need to get the course designed and installed.
2 pin locations
The short course is about 5500 feet and the long locations is over 7000 feet. For perspective, that's around 1000 feet longer than Hover or Alum's layouts.
Mix of Blendon and Griggs
With the first 9 holes being in the open, there's lots of birdie chances for bombers. But the back 9 is densely wooded, so there's room for finesse players to score as well.
How You Can Get Involved
Work Days
We'll be hosting 1-2 course maintenance work days and we'll need help from the community to bring back the course to it's former glory
Tournament Registration
Every player who registers brings us closer to our fundraising goal. We're hosting 2 different tournaments in one weekend, March 29th & 30th.
Spread the Word
Share the event with your friends, your league, and anyone who wants to see Big Run thrive again.
Follow Our Journey
We’ll be posting updates and progress reports as we work toward making this permanent.
Big Run Tournament Photos
Shout out to John Marx-Miller for taking so many great photos from the tournament weekend. Check them out through the link below