A new disc golf course at West Virginia University Jackson’s Mill will allow 4-H’ers and visitors to experience the sport while learning about diabetes education, thanks to a partnership with Novo Nordisk.

The course is the first of its kind on the Jackson’s Mill campus and will be used, in part, to help teach 4-H’ers and the public about diabetes and the impact that physical activity can have on improving health.

Each tee is accompanied by a kiosk containing educational information approved by the FDA, courtesy of Novo Nordisk, a global healthcare company focused on diabetes care.

“WVU Extension’s biggest success stories lie in the power of partnerships,” said Steve Bonanno, dean and director of the WVU Extension Service. “By partnering with Novo Nordisk, we’ve opened up an opportunity to help educate our 5,000 campers who visit Jackson’s Mill and the people of West Virginia who are looking for outdoor recreation opportunities.”

The sport shares many similarities with golf. Players throw a disc, slightly different than those remembered from childhood, towards a “hole,” which in this case is a basket with chains that catch the disc. The player who is able to get the disc from the tee to the basket in the least amount of throws is the winner.

“Not only is disc golf a unique sport with exponential growth, it’s one of the few sports that is designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages and economic statuses,” said Matt Schm�ck, 4-H camping specialist for the WVU Extension Service. “This course will be unique as it is integrated into the lesser known areas of WVU Jackson’s Mill, letting players explore everything the campus has to offer.”

The course has been divided into two, nine-hole segments that ensures all skill levels are able to have fun and challenge themselves— from beginner to expert.

The inaugural “first throw” will take place on Wednesday, July 15, as Novo Nordisk officials will team up with 4-H campers for the course’s first play through. The course will also host its inaugural tournament on Sunday, August 30, which will be a Professional Disk Golf Association sanctioned event.

Daily play for the public will be available whenever the grounds of WVU Jackson’s Mill are open. Call 304-269-5100 or visit jacksonsmill.ext.wvu.edu for additional details.

-WVU-

zl/07/14/15

CONTACT: Cassie Thomas, WVU Extension Service
304.293.8735, Cassie.Thomas@mail.wvu.edu

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