More on Aptos and the rest of the Santa Cruz DG scene

Didn't mention it in the last post, but big props and thanks to Jake and his minions for first getting a course approved at Aptos High School, then making it a reality, and finally for continuing to make improvements to the layout, design and amenities.

It doesn't seem that long ago that, during a round a DeLa, I said to someone "Just imagine: in about a year we'll have FOUR courses in Santa Cruz county!" At the time we had DeLa and Black Mouse, but the Mouse was in a state of disrepair with less than 18 holes, and no way for first-time visitors to figure out the layout. Now look at us.

DeLa- What can you say . . . it's DeLa!

Black Mouse- Although the original layout was better, at least the course is back to 18 holes. Plus, thanks to a great volunteer effort (sometimes it seems like elves come at night and refine paths from hole-to-hole), cement teepads are slowly beginning to increase and small signs help people find the next hole. This course is short, and carved into an extremely wooded and hilly 30 acres. A great contrast to the area's other courses.

Pinto Lake- The work to get that course installed (both politically and sweat-of-the-brow style) is a great testimony to why Tom Schot is a member of the Disc Golf Hall of Fame. After getting the first nine completely installed, with cement pads, DGA signs, Mach III baskets, and tons of OB markers, the 'back nine' is well on the way to being completed as well. Reviews of this course are mixed, but no one can deny that it's tough score-wise and endurance-wise, that it's a beautiful bird sanctuary, and that it has the potential to one day become DeLa's predecessor as a world-class disc golf challenge.

Aptos High School- This course is the perfect compliment to the other three. It's the best choice for beginners due to its moderate length and openness, but the elevation changes, design, and wind keep it interesting for more accomplished players. It already has cement pads on all 18 holes, and Jake just announced the planned addition of alternate pin positions. Considering the steady progress they've achieved there, expect those new positions soon!