Each Autumn, disc golfers from around the world gather at their local courses for one purpose: to throw aces! No putting, no approaching... just runnin' at the chains.
To add to the challenge and excitement, players all throw the same model disc: a brand new, never-seen-before Discraft prototype disc that is introduced each year especially for Ace Race. All 2011 participants receive a player's pack that includes two discs, a mini, sticker and a golf bag! A value over 50 bucks, your entry fee is only $25!
Vid of the Week
Best. Ace Race. Video. Ever! Oslo, Norway by Hans Marius Fløtten.
other ace vids
Ace Race info for Players
When: August, September and October. Check the calendar for the Ace Race in your area... or run your own ace race! To run an event, see the TD info page.
Format: Two rounds of 18 holes, one throw per hole per player.
Course layout: Holes are generally between 180 and 250 feet (55 to 75 meters).
Entry fee: $25
Player package: Guaranteed to be at least twice the value of your entry fee! The 2011 player pack included two identical Discraft prototype discs made especially for Ace Race, plus a SuperColor mini, sticker and a sweet disc bag for every player. More than a $50 value!
Rules of play: Players are required to use the player package discs, and only these discs. If a disc is lost, the player has the option of using the second disc from the package. Only one throw per player per hole. All players should have their own scorecards and mark "A" for aces (a hole-in-one) and "M" for holes on which they hit metal.
After all players in the group have thrown, discs are picked up and the group moves directly to the next tee. Players keep their scorecards for round two, using the next line on the card to record the round.
The player with the most aces after 36 holes is declared the winner. In case of ties, the number of metal hits is used as a tie breaker. If a tie persists, a closest to the pin contest is then used to determine the event winner.
Prize package: Grand prize for each event is a Discraft merchandise package, including a bag and eight new discs. Events are also encouraged to offer an optional cash side pot for those who wish to participate, which is divided proportionally among the number of aces and/or metal hits.
To sign up: Contact your local Ace Race Tournament Director from the calendar page.
The guardian of the basket is known as FATE, and he's got your invitation to bring the heat! TDs receive local event versions in the mail, you can also click image for full size and customize for digital delivery.
The history of the Ace Race prototype discs
Each year Ace Racers are the first players to ever throw a new Discraft prototype disc. These discs are always designed to be easy to throw and control. Only 2008's Nebula has never been officially released outside of Ace Race. Here's the breakdown of the discs since our first year in 2003:
After a long and patient wait, fans of the 2011 Ace Race prototype can now legally use it in PDGA competition. The PDGA has approved the disc up the 183 grams in weight.
The large and slow disc has been renamed Zeppelin. Information is not yet available on Discraft's plans to release Zeppelin to the general public.
309: Dalaiwood sets new attendance records
Washington event boasts biggest Ace Race ever and biggest disc golf tournament in Northwest history
Jeanne and Scott Papa of Olalla WA have been leading the way in Ace Race excellence since the event began, they surprised even themselves when 309 disc golfers showed up for their 2011 Dalaiwood Ace Race on Sep 10th. "Not only was this the largest Ace Race ever, I believe we can now claim the title of biggest Northwest disc golf tournament ever," said TD Scott Papa. "Sorry, Beaver State Fling!"
Way to go Dalaiwood! Scott and his many helpers had video rolling, some of which will be used for a how-to video on running your own event.
Event registration: How to run your own local Ace Race
New event registration for 2011 is closed, but now is the time to plan for next year! We'll open registration in March or April 2012. Once an event is locked into a particular community, we place a buffer zone of approximately 30 miles around that event to ensure Ace Races aren't competing with each other. Remember that you must schedule your Ace Race for August, September or October. Learn more about how running an Ace Race works on the TD info page.
To run an Ace Race, no previous experience as a Tournament Director is required. Many thousands of disc golfers came out to throw at nearly 300 local events in 2011, up almost 50% from 2010! Ace Race will grow again in 2012, so don't wait to register your event! Typically, Ace Races are limited to one per community. If you wait, someone could lock in the Ace Race in your town ahead of you. See the TD info page to learn more.
This year's proto is unique and sweet, and we think you're going to love it! It's the widest diameter putt and approach model Discraft has ever
offered, so it can legally weigh in at a hefty 183 grams (subject to PDGA approval)... that's at least a full seven grams more than other putters! The disc is obedient to its
master and goes where you throw it, delivering directional precision and soft, flat landings. The rim is beadless and feels great in your hand. Think
of it as a shorter, slower Comet that is hungry for chains.
class: putt and approach
plastics: ESP and Pro D
width: 22.06 cm
max weight: 182 or 183, depending on PDGA ruling
All 2011 players get a bag!
As always, Ace Race participants receive two copies of the annual Ace Race prototype disc, plus a mini and sticker. For 2011 we're also including a sweet weekender bag! Click the pic for more info.
What players are saying
We had a fun-ominal time! With mulligans for pet food we raised 504 lbs. for our local shelter. It was a good time had by all as lunch was served and we spent time with many great friends. Til next year, Richie Piser, Ashboro NC.
After a long and patient wait, fans of the 2011 Ace Race prototype can now legally use it in PDGA competition. The PDGA has approved the disc up the 183 grams in weight. 
