Gila Valley to Host First-Ever Sanctioned Disc Golf Tournament – Graham County Chamber of Commerce

SAFFORD, Ariz. (May 8, 2025) — The Gila Valley Disc Golf Club will host the region’s first-ever sanctioned disc golf tournament, the Desert Chains Classic, on Friday, Aug. 30, 2025. The event is sanctioned as a PDGA C-Tier tournament and is expected to draw players from across the Southwest.

Round one will take place at the Graham County Fairgrounds Course, followed by round two at the Discovery Park Course.

The tournament is open to both amateur and professional disc golfers, with up to 144 competitors anticipated. The event is organized by the Gila Valley Disc Golf Club, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and steward of both local courses.

“This is a major step forward for our disc golf community,” said club organizers. “It brings in new visitors, increases awareness of our local courses, and contributes to the region’s growing sports tourism market.”

Disc golf has been growing in the Gila Valley since 2019, when local resident Matt Hart built the original nine-hole course at the fairgrounds by hand. With the addition of a second course, the area is now equipped to host full-scale competitive events.

The event is free for the public to attend, although there are no dedicated spectator areas. Players in the professional divisions will compete for cash prizes, while amateur players will receive trophies and player packs.

The United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties has provided sponsorship for the tournament. Additional disc golf vendors are expected on-site during the event.

Registration is open through Aug. 15 or until the tournament reaches capacity. Players can sign up online at:
 https://www.discgolfscene.com/tournament/Desert_Chains_Classic_2025

Organizers plan to make the Desert Chains Classic an annual event, with the long-term goal of establishing the Gila Valley as a disc golf destination.

About Gila Valley Disc Golf Club
The Gila Valley Disc Golf Club is a nonprofit organization committed to growing the sport of disc golf in southeastern Arizona. The club maintains both the Graham County Fairgrounds Course and the Discovery Park Course and promotes inclusive community events throughout the year.

Website: https://www.gilavalleydiscgolfclub.com
Email: gilavalleydiscgolfclub@gmail.com