History in the Making: Largest FPO Field Ever to Compete in US Women’s Disc Golf Championships

Article written by: Michelle Springett – DGPT Communications Coordinator

It’s been called the “Female Super Bowl for Disc Golf”; the much-anticipated 2023 United States Women’s Disc Golf Championships is happening this weekend. As fans gear up to witness this thrilling disc golf event, we’re keeping an eye on these top storylines. Follow along on the Disc Golf Network for LIVE coverage! Fans can subscribe to the Disc Golf Network for $12.99 a month. Additionally, DGN is currently running a 30% off yearly subscription promotion, and PDGA members can get 50% off the monthly option!

Kristin Tattar’s Continued Dominance:

Kristin Tattar is definitely a force to be reckoned with in the world of disc golf. With a 2019 USWDGC title and threeconsecutive FPO Majors won this season, she’s on the verge of making history with a potential fourth win in a row this weekend. If she wins, she will be the FIRST-ever FPO player to sweep the Majors in a single season (in a season with at least 3 majors). Kristin hasn’t returned to the USWDGC since her win in 2019, but we’re glad she’s on the registration list this year. Kristin’s Major victories this season are already rated among the highest-rated of all time. It’s possible she may also become the first FPO player to earn a 1000+ rating if she keeps up her record-setting pace – her last update had her only a tiny bit shy of breaking the 1000 mark. Seeing her continued pursuit of glory and undeniable talent on the course will be exciting.

The Absence of a Legend:

Five-time USW champion Paige Pierce will be missed dearly at this Major. Her injury has ruled her out of this season’s tournament, marking this the first USWDGC without her presence since 2009. Paige’s impeccable 1024.33 event rating at the 2021 USWDGC remains the highest FPO event rating ever. Will another competitor be able to overtake this achievement this weekend?

Chasing the First Major:

Ohn Scoggins and Missy Gannon are hunting for their first FPO Major victory. With five FP40 Major titles, Ohn has shown her mettle with a win at the 2023 Discraft’s Great Lakes Open presented by GRIP6 and a close 2nd at the 2023 MVP Open presented by OTB. Missy’s impressive form is evident from her two Major podium finishes this year and a second-place finish in the DGPT points series headed into the DGPT Championship

Defending Champion Hailey King:

Hailey King, who won her first FPO Major at the US Women’s Championships last season, is now in great form and heating up after her victory at the MVP Open. Hailey’s one-stroke victory at the 2023 MVP Open against the fiercest competitors like Kristin Tattar, Ohn Scoggins, and Holyn Handley had us on the edge of our seats, and we can not wait to watch her performance live this weekend. Can she defend the title and shut down a Major performance from Kristin Tattar? 

Beyond the Usual Suspects:

Ella Hansen achieved a podium finish (3rd) at the 2021 US Women’s Championship in her debut FPO Major, making her a promising athlete to keep an eye on. Ella recently captured her first-ever DGPT win at the 2023 Discmania Open, so she’s got our attention this weekend. Holyn Handley recognized for her impressive birdie skills, and Catrina Allen, the 2012 USWDGC Champion, may also pull off a surprising win this weekend but will have to defy expectations and play aggressively against the favorites

Course Dynamics:

The Regulator at Cedarock is set to challenge the participants, and the front 9 is beautifully designed to weave through the woods, making precision key. The back 9 has a bit more room to work with but still requires accuracy. Despite being a mid-length course, it has a high par value, making birdie opportunities relatively plentiful; expect low scores this weekend. 

The upcoming 2023 United States Women’s Disc Golf Championships is not your average event. It’s a highly anticipated competition where history will be made for the FPO division. This year’s tournament boasts the largest FPO field in USWDGC history; nearly 350 players over 24 divisions are currently registered to compete beginning Thursday, September 21, in Burlington, North Carolina. The event promises incredible displays of skill, intense rivalries, and exciting finishes. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable disc golf extravaganza!

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