My favorite local disc golf course is McDonald Pass. As you see from the link, it is, or WAS, the oldest course in the state of Montana. It is also one of the more beautiful courses I have ever played. In the spring there are still snow drifts to go along with the creek, marsh, tree, and barb wire fence hazards. One can stop and look at the variety of flora as they come alive after the winter abates and then watch the variety of wildflowers, birds, and wildlife that can be seen there in that seemingly cut off from the world folf course in the mountains as they change through summer, fall, and back into winter.
Rumors had been circulating that the course was going to be taken down even though it is one of the most popular disc golf courses in the state, the sight of the Continental Divide Tournament, and a place for people of all ages to come and spend time in a gorgeous Rocky Mountain environment. No specific reason has been given, that I know of, and we had all hoped that these rumors were just rumors.
Unfortunately, they are not. This evening, my sister went with one of our close friends to play a round of disc golf only to come back in a state of distress because it is being torn down. She said they couldn’t finish their game and they left in tears.
In a city, state, (heck) country that is facing problems with obesity, disconnect with nature, depression, teenage delinquency, and over all disconnect from one another and our natural environment; why the hell would you take down a disc golf course that offers a place of sanctuary for people from all different age, economic, and cultural backgrounds? Why take down a place that gives kids and adults something constructive to do outdoors that is cheap (free) and a good alternative to watching tv, doing drugs, or hanging out on street corners?
I find it ironic that on the same weekend the city of Helena is having anti-meth workshops with kids they are tearing down an environment necessary to keep kids and adults off meth, off the streets, and physically active.
On top of that, it is one more thing that makes this town appealing that is being destroyed.
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