Sports + rec: Frolf fever

The everyman alternative to actual golf, disc golf (or frolf, if you're down) is an increasingly popular summertime activity. Founded in 1975, the Minnesota Frisbee Association is the go-to source for all things on ultimate Frisbee, freestyle and disc golf. We asked MFA marketing/communications head and lifelong frolfer Derek Tonn to help guide newcomers to the sport.

GEAR + ADVICE

Just like golf, there's different equipment for varying scenarios, including specialized discs for driving, approach shots and putting. Two of Tonn's favorite shops -- Gotta Go Gotta Throw (1200 Mendelssohn Av. N., Golden Valley) and Fairway Flyerz (2950 Rice St., St. Paul) -- can get newbies equipped for well under $100, he said, adding that the sport's affordability is a major draw. With regard to rookie pointers, Tonn stressed the short game. Long-driving showmanship à la Happy Gilmore may be good for the ego, he explained, but it doesn't help with your overall score.

COURSES

Here's a tally of some of MFA's favorite metro courses, courtesy of Tonn. Each course carries a $5-per-player fee.

• Blue Ribbon Pines (1901 Klondike Dr., East Bethel). Tonn's take: "Gorgeous."
• Bryant Lake Park (6800 Rowland Rd., Eden Prairie): "In terms of landscaping and beauty, it's the closest equivalent to a golf course."
• Kaposia Park (1028 Wilde Av., South St. Paul): "Challenging. There's a lot of trees, elevation changes -- a lot of variety."
• Hyland Ski & Snowboard Area (8800 Chalet Rd., Bloomington): "Views. It's on the ski area, so you get beautiful shots down the hills."
• Elm Creek Park Reserve (12400 James Deane Pkwy., Maple Grove): "Nature. The features, native grasses and wildlife are beautiful."
• MFA-approved free courses include Acorn Park (286 W. County Road C, Roseville) and Oakwood Park (7851 Harkness Av. S., Cottage Grove).