By Todd Branch / DiscLife.com
video greeting from Todd (136 Kb mpg)

• Introduction
• First Update
• Second Update
• Third Update

As I look at this computer I realize what a daunting task it is to attempt to convey to you, the reader, the scope and size of the Discraft PDGA Disc Golf World Championships 2000. My task was made even larger a moment ago when I finished this piece and, as I was signing my name at the bottom, the power cut off in the Winnie. Sometimes I feel as though I am being tested.

Hey Up There A wave from one of the camera platforms.

Never has an underfunded group of organizers and volunteers undertaken such a huge task. 800+ golfers on six world class (and I do mean world class) courses. Six days of play. Numerous contests and giveaways. Meals, accommodations, data input, and the keeping of a timetable. Team Michigan had the experienced TDs due to the long running MDGO series and the always successful Great Lakes Open. I didn't personally have much to do with the running of Worlds 2000 but I did receive and read about 1000 emails concerning the preparation and execution of this monstrous event. It will never be surpassed using a volunteer base of organizers and staff.

Worlds 2000 was a testament to what a group of self proclaimed hippies and frisbee freaks can do with hard work, cooperation, and love for the game and its people. The PDGA supplied immeasurable hard work and talented people to help make sure things went smoothly without taking over. The majority of volunteers and workers were the people I knew when I wandered onto the Hudson Mills disc golf facility some four years ago. I was in awe of their talent and dedication from the start. Today I hold even more respect for everyone from my home state who took the time away from their families and work to make this happen. I consider myself a product of the Michigan disc golf scene and try to keep that in mind as I travel the world playing the game I love. I have always worked to earn the respect of these people and will continue to do so. I sit here filled with pride at the accomplishments of the MDGO and the Ann Arbor Area Disc Golf Club. I am so proud of you all.

I am also proud of my small group of traveling golfers. Each member of the Winnicrew managed to cash. We all wish we could have played better in front of our friends, family and our supporters in our home state, but we did the best we could. Thank you to all for every kind word of support. Thank you to everyone who purchased merchandise from our flymart table. Every little bit helps. It ain't easy out here but we'll try to keep the Winnie rolling and the discs flying for as long as our bodies and finances will allow.

Making It Happen Working the registration table are (left to right) Rob Hower, Todd White and Brian 'Guru' Hoeniger.

Cam Todd managed a top ten finish along with traveling pals Steve Rico, Mike Randolph, and Dr. Rick (Doc has been traveling a LOT). Congratulations to Kenny and Juliana. My condolences to Ron Russell. Brian Mace always jokes with me that I am the unluckiest player in disc golf, but Ron tends to be fighting injury every year. I admire him for continuing to play with his smashed up hand.

What more is there? The Flymart. Biggest one I've ever seen. I found a few sweet discs to add to my throwing stock. There must've been 60+ tables of vendors selling everything from Pluto Platters to clear plastic Tee-birds, to the new KC Firebirds.

I met many people over the course of the event. Some of my favorites were Bob Gentile and Ruby from New Zealand. A pair of men from the Republic of China. The Swedes who out-threw most of us in distance. All the Canadians are the greatest (where were you Paul Beleya?), and my mixed doubles partner Laura Thomley who seems to have as much trouble playing in the rain as I do. We'll get 'em next time Laura.

Thanks again to everyone involved. See you on tour, see you online!

-Todd

You can follow the adventures of Todd and the Winnicrew each week of the season with the worlds's leader in disc golf coverage: DiscLife.com