2024 RePlay Course Growth Program Winner
The Revitalization of Ellison Park & A New Era for Disc Golf in Rochester
Ellison Park recognized as the most popular disc golf course in Rochester with a rich history dating back to its use for the 1984 PDGA World Championships, is poised for a significant upgrade. The Mach 3 baskets, resilient over the years, will make way for modern enhancements as part of a comprehensive revitalization plan.
Originally laid out in 1975 as the disc golf course for the Rochester Frisbee Club, Ellison Park faced challenges in the late 1970s when the Monroe County Parks department closed the Landing Road portion due to budget constraints. Grass overgrowth rendered the area unusable, leading disc golf events to shift to alternate locations from 1978 to 1983.
A turning point came in 1984 when the Rochester Frisbee Club successfully advocated for Ellison Park to host the PDGA World Championships. The park underwent extensive grooming, resulting in a well-received 36-hole disc golf course. The positive community response led to efforts to maintain Ellison Park in its groomed state, setting the stage for further disc golf activities.
In 1989, Ellison Park became a permanent disc golf facility. The course underwent further updates in 1998 in preparation for the 1999 PDGA World Championships.
Fast forward to the spring of 2014, a redesign was implemented with the collaboration of club members and the Monroe County Parks Department, marking another chapter in Ellison Park’s evolution.
While no longer considered the most challenging course in the area, Ellison Park remains beloved and popular among many, especially for beginner players. The upcoming upgrade aims to enhance the course’s legacy, offering a modern and enjoyable experience for disc golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Ellison Park Disc Golf Course
The Ellison Park Disc Golf Course is located on the east side of Rochester N.Y. The storied disc golf course is a hilly course featuring grassy fairways, tall trees. All types of elevation come into play, with uphill, sidehill and downhill fairways.
What happens to the existing baskets?
In a move that underscores its dedication to community engagement, Ellison Park Disc Golf Course announces the donation of all old baskets to three local schools in Monroe County. With written permissions secured from each school, this initiative aims to support and enrich the educational and recreational opportunities for students in the region.
The donation breakdown is as follows:
- Brockport Central School District: Six baskets
- Churchville-Chili Central School District: Six baskets
- East Rochester Central School District: Six baskets
The generous gesture aligns with Ellison Park’s mission to foster a sense of community beyond the disc golf course. By extending a helping hand to local schools, the initiative seeks to contribute to physical activity and recreation for students while promoting the growth of disc golf within the educational sphere.
“The Mach 3’s that are currently in the ground are about 25 years old, very excited to get these new ones. We’re hoping these new Mach 7’s last another 20-25 years for us.”
– Jeff Carson
Stay tuned for Ellison Park DGC Updates
Learn more about the DGA Mach 7 that winners of the RePlay Course Growth Program receive
The DGA Mach 7 provides the added visibility of a band without the unwanted distraction and unpleasant “clanks.” The Mach 7’s shielded Visibility Ring allows you to focus on the catching zone rather than outside of it. You get peace of mind seeing your target while focusing on what really matters–making your putt.