The Sandy Hollow Open

Hey Chris. I see there is one spot open for the 8:40 FA60/FA70 tee time. If it doesn't fill before Saturday, would you consider adding another MA60 player to fill out the 8:40 card? I realize someone ... show more ›

Hey Chris. I see there is one spot open for the 8:40 FA60/FA70 tee time. If it doesn't fill before Saturday, would you consider adding another MA60 player to fill out the 8:40 card? I realize someone else from my division might end up playing with them on Sunday, but I know I'd be more than happy to play a round with 2 time world champion Jane Anderson-Renton! Doesn't hurt to ask, right? Thanks Chris

Good Morning Sandy Hollow Open Players! We’re excited to announce that the tee times for Round 1 of the Sandy Hollow Open are now live! You can view your scheduled tee time on the PDGA Event Page ... show more ›

Good Morning Sandy Hollow Open Players!

We’re excited to announce that the tee times for Round 1 of the Sandy Hollow Open are now live! You can view your scheduled tee time on the PDGA Event Page: https://www.pdga.com/tour/event/80492

While we are not anticipating any changes, we kindly ask that you check your tee time again before you go to bed on Friday night, just to ensure everything is still accurate. If any adjustments are needed, they will be made no later than 8:00 PM on Friday.

Due to a few last-minute withdrawals, we were able to reduce the number of cards for the weekend by two. As a result, there is a slightly modified tee-time schedule for both Saturday and Sunday. You can find the updated tee-time schedule for the weekend posted to the "pictures" section of the DGS page.

Additionally, I’ll be working hard on the course tonight to complete the remainder of the trimming, as well as to paint and flag all OB areas and drop zones. This means that anyone playing a practice round tomorrow will be able to experience the full tournament layout.

Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to a fantastic weekend of disc golf!

Best regards,
Chris Thompson
Sandy Hollow Open Tournament Director

Just wondering due to this being a qualifier for provincials. And for record do like the guys that fall into this issue. There is some participants in ma40. That are mp40 this year amd habe ratings ov ... show more ›

Just wondering due to this being a qualifier for provincials. And for record do like the guys that fall into this issue. There is some participants in ma40. That are mp40 this year amd habe ratings over 920. Which according to the rule of pros playing amateur events they are over the rating rule. Which states 40 years of age or older and under a rating below 920. I just don't think it's a fair field for those true amateurs trying to get those possible final spots to provincials. Is this something you will be looking at or we just out of luck? Again this is not an attack just clarification for fairness of competition

This year things will be a little different, as we will be making players packs an optional item during registration. We have had a ton of feedback that there are many amateurs that are tired of being ... show more ›

This year things will be a little different, as we will be making players packs an optional item during registration. We have had a ton of feedback that there are many amateurs that are tired of being forced to pay for a more expensive registration just to get a players pack they have no interest in. So the base registration cost has been decreased to account for this change, and an option to add a tournament stamped disc will be given to you during registration.

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 ... show more ›

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