The Portage Disc Golf Club hosted its 11th annual Portage Open at Island Park, welcoming 60 competitors to a course in top condition and under ideal weather. The event continues to be a highlight on the Manitoba Disc Golf Tour, drawing players from across the province.
“Yeah, we're really excited. We had 60 disc golfers sign up for our event, and the weather was perfect. We couldn't have asked for a better day,” said Portage Disc Golf Club Chairman Cody Buhler. “It wasn't too hot. It was nice and cool. Just a very slight breeze.”
Since its launch in 2015, the Portage Open has grown steadily, both in scale and reputation. The course now features nine permanent baskets, with nine additional temporary ones added during tournament play to expand the layout across Island Park. This year’s setup offered a unique experience, allowing spectators and park-goers to catch glimpses of the action.
A major milestone for the 2025 edition was the introduction of a youth division. Four young competitors took part in their first-ever tournament, supported by a welcoming and experienced disc golf community.
“The disc golf community is incredibly supportive. All of the experienced disc golfers were giving them tips and pointers, and were giving them some extra swag and discs to kind of help them on their disc golf journey.”
The Portage course is known for its technical difficulty, with tight fairways and tree-lined shots that challenge even seasoned players. Buhler adds that, unlike some more open courses, the challenges of the course made the scores a lot closer.
“We saw the numbers a little bit more reserved here in Portage just because it is a tougher course, even though it is not necessarily longer,” Buhler explained. “The obstacles make it a lot more of a challenge.”
The tournament is sanctioned by the Professional Disc Golf Association, meaning players’ performances contribute to their international rankings. It also plays a role in the Manitoba Disc Golf Tour standings. Funds raised during the event support both the PDGA and the Manitoba Rural Fund, which helps smaller communities improve or expand their disc golf facilities.
Beyond the tournament, the Portage course remains accessible year-round thanks to its permanent infrastructure.
“As long as you want to go out and play, you can, even in the middle of winter. I know some guys are very hardcore and have played in the snow.”
With continued support from sponsors, volunteers and the local disc golf community, the Portage Open remains a cornerstone event in Manitoba’s disc golf scene.