The 15th Anniversary of the Discraft Ledgestone Open: Everything You Need to Know

The professional disc golf scene in Central Illinois is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events: the 15th anniversary of the Discraft Ledgestone Open. As a hallmark tournament in the Disc Golf Pro Tour (DGPT) circuit, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, attracting world-class talent and thousands of disc golf enthusiasts.

Event Dates and Schedule

The 2025 Discraft Ledgestone Open, hosted by Zuca, is set to unfold from Thursday to Sunday, with rounds commencing as early as 8 a.m. each day. Here’s a detailed overview of the event schedule:

• Thursday – The first round kicks off with the Men’s Pro Open at Lake Eureka Temp Disc Golf Course and the Women’s Pro Open at Northwood Black Shorts Course (Morton), running from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Friday – The second round finds the Men’s Pro Open at Northwood Black Long Course and the Women’s Pro Open at Sunset Hills (Pekin), starting at 9 a.m.

• Saturday – Similar to Friday, the Men’s Pro Open will play at Northwood Black Long Course while women compete at Sunset Hills, with rounds from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Sunday – The final round takes place at Lake Eureka Temp Disc Golf Course for men and Northwood Black Shorts for women, concluding the tournament.

With over 200 professional players from across the U.S. and Europe set to compete, the Ledgestone Open aims to elevate the excitement of disc golf.

Venue and Course Locations

Central to the charm and challenge of the Ledgestone Open is its extensive number of courses, set across 12 different locations in the Peoria area. Disc golf enthusiasts of all ages will have the opportunity to witness amazing displays of talent. Key venues include:

• Lake Eureka Park (Eureka)
• Wildlife Prairie Park (Hanna City)
• Northwood Park (Morton)
• Sunset Hills Country Club (Pekin)
• Many more notable courses spread across the vibrant landscapes of Central Illinois.

Each year, the courses are redesigned to bring new challenges, ensuring even seasoned pros are tested to their limits.

Prize Pool and Competition Dynamics

The competition is fierce this year, as players will compete for an estimated $150,000 prize pool, which is among the largest in disc golf history. With a total player base reaching 2,400—including both professional and amateur competitors—this tournament showcases the growing popularity of disc golf, which has seen participation rates increase by 76% globally in the last five years.

Highlighting the competition are defending champions Gannon Buhr and Holyn Handley, both recognized among the top disc golf players in the world. Gannon Buhr, ranked No. 1, is just a 20-year-old phenom from Iowa, while Holyn Handley, the current DGPT season standings leader hails from Texas.

Viewing Options: How to Watch Live

For those unable to attend in person, the 2025 Ledgestone Open offers a live stream via the Disc Golf Network. As the premier pay-per-view service for disc golf, fans can enjoy the excitement of the tournament from the comfort of their own homes. The stream includes comprehensive coverage, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights.

If you’re looking to catch the action live and see your favorite pros in action, be sure to secure your subscription ahead of the event!

Ticketing Information

Attendees can purchase VIP and general admission passes for the tournament. Various ticketing options make it accessible for fans wanting to support their favorites on-site:

• VIP Passes: All four days for $128.02; single-day options are also available.
• General Admission: Entire tournament for $65.02 with a single-day ticket costing around $22.50 to $27.76 depending on the day.

Special perks come with different ticket categories, allowing fans various ways to engage.

Special Events and Family Activities

The Ledgestone Open isn’t just about the competition; it also features a slew of special events and activities designed for families and kids. For instance, on Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., there will be activities like disc-dyeing and inflatables at Lake Eureka.

Don’t miss the opportunity to meet pro players like Catrina Allen during her autograph session, or enjoy the evening festivities, including a free ice cream social and live music.

Highlighting Top Female Competitors

Among the female competitors, thrilling performances are expected from some of the top-ranked players:

• Holyn Handley: Ranked No. 2 in the world, Handley has an impressive collection of 34 career wins.

• Catrina Allen: A five-time Ledgestone champion, she has 181 career wins and continues to be a dominant force in women’s disc golf.

• Paige Pierce and Missy Gannon, both accomplished players with multiple championships, are also set to create unforgettable moments throughout the tournament.

Leading Male Players to Watch

On the men’s side, the competition is equally thrilling with top players vying for the title. Key competitors include:

• Calvin Heimburg: Ranked No. 3 worldwide, with 61 wins to his name.

• Gannon Buhr: The defending champion, now the No. 1 ranked player at just 20 years old, holds tremendous potential.

• Paul McBeth: A legendary figure in the sport, McBeth’s experience and skill make him a crowd favorite.

Fun Facts About the Ledgestone Open

Did you know that the Ledgestone Open has made a significant impact within the community? Since 2014, it has raised over $750,000 for local charities, including substantial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This focus on philanthropy underscores the tournament’s commitment not just to the sport but also to its surrounding community.

With the Ledgestone Open approaching, now is the time to mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend filled with exciting disc golf action, community engagement, and unforgettable experiences!

In summary, the 2025 Discraft Ledgestone Open represents a cornerstone event in the world of professional disc golf. With a thrilling lineup, extensive involvement from the community, and a commitment to raising charitable funds, this tournament encapsulates the growth and excitement surrounding disc golf today. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the sport, there’s something in store for everyone to enjoy at this landmark tournament!