By Brian Sullivan / DiscLife.com
Sunday, July 30

Okay, it's been more than a little wet in the Ann Arbor, Michigan area over the past few days.

Nearly 90 percent of players were signed in by Sunday afternoon.

Maybe just a little.

"We've been experiencing flooding of Biblical proportions," said Team Michigan's Tony Kroes. "Holes four and twelve at the Cass-Benton course are flooded." While the water covering these holes is expected to subside overnight, the region has suffered through seven inches of rainfall in the past 48 hours, which has generally dampened everything but the spirits of the players.

The rain had eased by Sunday afternoon, enough so to hold Divisional Doubles, mini golf and the distance throwing preliminaries. Results were not in at press time, but we did see a 573 foot throw from a guy who looked an awful like Sweden's Christian Sandstrom. Results are here.

The main attraction of the day was Tournament Central itself. An awesome sight, TC is a circus-worthy tent with a capacity of more than 800. Registration was brisk enough to keep Al Haaksma, Rob Hower and other volunteers wet from sweat as opposed to rain. Approximately 90 percent of the week's players are now checked in. If Mother Nature will cooperate, it should be a magical week.

Steady Ed hugs his new chain configuration. Bottom chain ring is illustrated in upper right.

Meanwhile, "Steady Ed" Headrick was rolling up with his latest basket modification, the "Soft Touch" chain configuration. "It's a huggable Pole Hole," he said with a grin. The chains offer a softer grab on the disc, and 15 percent more catching area. The trade-off: much less 'ching' sound. Player opinions have not yet been solicited, but many who saw the "Soft Touch" chains were intrigued. The chain will be available soon as a conversion kit to all Pole Hole disc catching targets.