Disc golf is no different from any other sport in that it can serve as both a competition and a recreational activity. During the course of competition, players benefit from exercise, stress release and being outdoors.

Played with discs hurled through the air, disc golf is similar to traditional golf in that each attempt is counted and the low score wins. The object of the game is to get the disc into a basket. Many disc golf courses are located in municipal parks and are free to play, and it can take up to four times longer to complete a round of regular golf.

A 66-year-old resident of Elizabeth Township, Elden Weaver was introduced to disc golf relatively late in life. He plays much of his disc golf right down the road from his home, at Elizabeth Township Community Park, 116 E. 28th Division Highway, Lititz.

"A lot of times I ride my electric scooter up the road to play," said Weaver. "It's fun. It can be relaxing after a hard day of work. You can easily fit in a round in the evening after work. If you enjoy the outdoors, it's a really good sport to get into. It's not super strenuous, but you still get your exercise."

It seems that disc golf, both as a sport and as a recreational activity, has gained popularity in Lancaster County.

"Before I was really into it, I really didn't pay too much attention to it," Weaver said. "It seems like since I've been playing, it's become a little more popular than before." He added, "Almost any course I go to there are quite a few people playing."

Nine years ago, Weaver's son and son-in-law surprised him with a round of disc golf for his birthday. He said that he's been hooked on it ever since.

"It definitely takes a lot of practice to be consistent," said Weaver. "Seventy-five percent of the time I play by myself. When I can get (my son and son-in-law) to play with me, it's a little better. I'm a mediocre player, but I try my best for sure. I beat the younger boys on occasion."

Elizabeth Township Community Park is one of six disc courses in Lancaster County that Weaver has played. He has also played at courses in Dauphin and Lebanon counties.

Situated on the periphery of the park's walking trail, the Elizabeth Township Community Park disc golf course was installed about seven years ago. The nine-hole course plays to a par of 27, and players can be challenged by its hilly terrain, tight fairways and shifting wind patterns.

"I'd rate it as a nine out of 10," said Weaver. "It's a nice course. It's kept up. It's a challenge, but not particularly difficult."