The History of Disc Golf traces back to Saskatchewan! Disc Golf can be described as the etiquette, course style and descriptive terms of traditional golf merged with the throwing of discs rather than using a golf ball and clubs. It is just as much an accuracy and precision sport as golf – players battle various natural elements like wind, trees, water hazards and other obstructions on the course. You finish each hole by landing your disc into a basket and the fewest number of throws over the entire course wins the round. Thankfully, if you become frustrated, there are no clubs to throw - just your disc! The modern day "Disc Golf" has origins dating back to the early 1900's. The first knowledge of playing "golf" with flying discs dates back to 1926 in Bladworth, Saskatchewan, where Ronald Gibson and friends in elementary school used tin lids tossed at targets on trees and fence posts on their school grounds. This activity has evolved slowly, becoming a sport and has gained popularity in recent years. It is now played in over 40 countries and has thousands of courses globally! Kevin Donnelly, George Sappenfield and Wham-O company each played a role to propel the emergence of the modern day version of sport in the 1960's throughout California. Now regarded as the "Father of Disc Golf," ‘Steady Ed’ Headrick emerged in the 1980's. Headrick, an employee of Wham-O is credited with pioneering today’s disc design by building the modern disc. He is not to be confused with Walter Fred Morrison, the inventor of the common recreational frisbee in 1937 before selling the rights to Wham-O in 1957. Reworking and redesigning disc shape, weight, diameters, rim height and materials, Headrick created an accurate and controllable professional model frisbee or "disc." Professional leagues were established as Headrick founded the "International Frisbee Association" (IFA). Headrick trademarked "Disc Golf" and patented the Disc Pole Hole. This added the use of chains and a basket to capture the disc and record a "hole out" signalling the end of play for each hole on the course, which ultimately ended many controversial claims on the course. In addition to Headrick's inventions and patents, he founded the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), the Disc Golf Association (DGA) and the Recreational Disc Golf Association (RDGA). Each served as governing bodies for professional, competitive, amateur and recreational play which standardized the rules of play and equipment regulations. Headrick later abandoned the trademark on Disc Golf to further the best interest of the sport. The modern disc is heavier and smaller than the recreational frisbee, measuring an average of about 20 centimetres and a maximum weight of 200 grams. These discs are designed for speed and control to maximize throwing accuracy. Mimicking golf, the drivers are long range discs with most weight and mass along it's outside edge. The mid-range disc is slightly slower and stable and used in a multi-purpose function to acquire distance and accuracy along the course. Finally, the putter is the most accurate disc; designed to fly straight, slow and very predictably, having a very short range, much like a putter in golf. More important than distance, stability is paramount to the game! Just like the technical aspects of golf clubs and golf balls, discs have unique characteristics. One being a "slice" in golf reference, thrown discs have a tendency to bank left or right during flight; this is called "turn" or "fade" in disc golf. A turn or fade is different for each player, therefore, depending on your throwing hand and the manner of which you throw, forehand or backhand, determines the throwers "turn" or "fade." If your throw has a clockwise rotation the "turn" banks to the right (the same direction as the disc's spin) and a "bank" moves against the disc's thrown rotation. The turn and fade is reversed for a throw with a counter-clockwise rotation. Atlas Outdoors Cycle and Recreation in Warman has extensive knowledge on the ins and outs (or turns and fades) of disc golf and can assist you in finding the correct disc for every throwing technique and player from novice through professional.
Get out there, find your turn, discover your fade, and challenge yourself in the world of disc golf!
Warman Diamond BMX Club is the fastest-growing BMX club in Saskatchewan, and thanks to a complete track overhaul this spring, now boasts one of the best tracks in Canada. The new track was designed by Trent Jones, a New Zealand native and one of the top BMX bikers in the world.
BMX, short for Bicycle Motocross, began in the 1970s and has become a popular sport. Sprint style races take place on a dirt track on small, fast bicycles that are designed to be ridden standing up. Up to eight riders compete at one time in each qualifying race, or moto. A race will have three motos, with the winner determined by finishing position calculated over the motos. Riders are categorized by age, and within the age groups they are divided by skill level. All riders start as novice and work up to more advanced levels. Equipment required is a full faced helmet, similar to, but lighter than, motocross helmets (available at Atlas Outdoors Cycle and Recreation in Warman), a long sleeved nylon jersey, motocross gloves and long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
Niall Schofield, president of Diamond BMX Club, has had a love for BMX biking since he began riding at the age of seven and is passionate about helping kids and adults in Warman have the opportunity to excel at this sport. He promotes the club motto: ‘Building Future Olympians.’ “Diamond BMX Club started with a half season last year with 23 riders, and this year we have 56, so it has doubled in size in less than a year. BMX is the fastest growing cycling sport in Saskatchewan, and some people might say it can be a transition sport.” Niall Schofield says. “Some riders, when done with BMX may end up doing Downhill Mountain Biking or Motocross.” Many riders stay in BMX and find success, such as Olympian BMX biker, Trent Jones, who won his first national title at the age of 11 and rose to become one of the world’s top ten ranked riders.
Schofield is happy with the progress of the fledgling club that was on the verge of folding when he became president. “I am extremely proud of this club. This is a dream come true for me as I used to race growing up. People thought I was crazy when I used to say, ‘One day I will build the best track in Canada.’ It was always at the back of my mind, so when I joined the club I was able to raise $443,000 in sponsorships to make it happen.” Schofield explains. When he first rode the original track he found that there were a few issues making it difficult to gain and maintain momentum, as well as sections that were too challenging for the average rider. He enlisted the expertise of world-renowned BMX rider Trent Jones to redesign it and along with the City of Warman, created the track that is now known as ‘the Gem of Saskatchewan.’
This track is the best BMX track in Western Canada, likely in all of Canada.” - Niall Schofield, President of Diamond BMX Club
Track designer Trent Jones says, “I’ve been extremely honoured to put Warman on the map for BMX, as also coming from a small rural community (back home in NZ) I understand first hand how much of a positive impact these sorts of projects can offer kids and their futures. It’s been awesome to see the local businesses really get behind and help turn the first stages of Niall’s vision into reality. Certainly exciting times ahead with the rapid growth of BMX in the wider area.”
The club is very grateful for the support of so many local businesses who stepped up to help with this huge endeavor. Sponsorship came in many forms besides monetary, such as dirt and material donations, use of equipment and much more. “It’s really amazing that we were able to pull this together so quickly with the support of so many fantastic businesses in our area,” says Schofield. The track is open to the public except times when the club is using it for practices: Sundays 4 pm to 6 pm, and race days 5 pm to 8 pm on Tuesdays.
Members of the Diamond BMX club have the unique opportunity to also use a track in Saskatoon. Schofield explains, “We have a partnership with Saskatoon’s Globe BMX so anyone who has a Diamond BMX membership can go race in Saskatoon on Thursdays at Globe’s track. We also accept their members so they can join in on our Tuesday race days. They are two totally different tracks. Their track is a little tighter and smaller, but in excellent shape, and our track is a bit bigger and more challenging for the lungs. So it is actualy the best of both worlds, to give our riders a chance to expand their skillset.” Globe BMX has been a great resource for the Warman club offering guidance on efficiency and accuracy in following the rules of the sport. “The support from Globe BMX has been amazing and we wouldn’t be where we are without them,” says Schofield.
Warman is host to BMX Sask Cup (Three and Four) on August 10 and 11, 2019. If you plan to compete, you can register at diamonondbmx.com until August 8. Or bring a lawn chair and be there for all the exhilaration and fun. The August 10 races begin at 3 pm with entertainment and beer gardens at 6 pm. On August 11 the excitement begins at 11 am. For more information or to join the club, see diamondbmx.com.
Diamond House Personal Care Home in Warman is a beautiful care home with a very special twist. It is also where you will hear the joy and laughter of the three and four year old children of Little Learners Preschool. Preschool classes take place several days a week throughout the home, much to the delight of the residents.
Kelvin Ooms, Diamond House (Golden Health Care) Home Administrator, praises the arrangement. He says, “Every senior care home should have a preschool. The interaction between the two groups creates an acceptance that is phenomenal.” He explains how hosting the children in the care home brings a youthful vibrancy and excitement that has a visible effect on the senior residents. “Even though they may start their day feeling a little sluggish, being surrounded by the laughter and play of the children brightens their faces and gives them a reason to smile and laugh.” Opportunities for spontaneous interaction are plentiful as well as planned activities, games and exercises that the two groups can do together in various spaces around the home. Occasionally the children are encouraged to visit residents in their rooms to spread cheer and share hugs and high-fives. Ooms says, “It takes a special kind of individual to run a preschool. Candace (Clayton) and Cindy (Hrapchak) go above and beyond and have taken such a special interest in the residents. They make a point of going to the residents and inviting them to join the preschool activities.”
Even though they may start their day feeling a little sluggish, being surrounded by the laughter and play of the children brightens their faces and gives them a reason to smile and laugh.” Kelvin Ooms, Home Administrator, Diamond House
Two seniors we had the opportunity to speak with have taken tremendous interest in the preschool children and love being part of the fun. Grandma Susan enjoys the children very much and claims they bring a feeling of vitality to her life and are a reminder to be open and carefree. When asked how she feels about the children, she says, “I love them!” And the children love her, too. When Grandma Susan had an operation a few months ago, the children made her a card that was given to her at the hospital. Receiving that gesture of cheer brought her so much joy. Another senior resident, Grandpa David, makes a point of being outside the front door, rain or shine, even on the coldest winter days bundled up in his winter jacket, greeting the children with a smile and high-five as they come to preschool class. He loves the interaction and having a chance to have a little visit with each child. “I’m the greeter. Wal-Mart has a greeter, so does Diamond House!” he says. If for some reason Grandpa David isn’t there to meet the children coming in, they notice and will ask where he is as they miss his smiling face and jovial greetings.
It’s easy to imagine how intergenerational activities and meaningful social engagement enhances health and well-being for the elderly. They typically welcome worthwhile, productive activity and co-operation helping to give them a sense of purpose in their lives. They are likely to feel less depressed, lonely or bored. Studies have shown that they may even experience lower blood pressure and delayed cognitive decline. Having the preschool in the senior care home bridges the generation gap, creating a sense of acceptance for both generations, especially for the children. Little Learners Preschool owner, Candace Clayton, explains, “The children may not have any seniors in their lives otherwise or may be only used to their own grandparents. By meeting the seniors in the home of varying ages, some of whom may have oxygen, wheelchairs, canes or walkers, they get used to all ages and aspects of the aging process and develop total acceptance.” She says that often when the children first meet the residents they are shy or timid but as they get to know them, relationships begin to flourish. Sometimes children have their favourite “Grandma” or “Grandpa” and will run to them and give them hugs or sit on their knee. The children revel in the adoration of the seniors and the co-operation enriches their lives in incredible ways. Not only does it improve their social and emotional skills, it greatly enhances their sense of empathy. Kids don’t notice signs of dementia the same way adults do. They don’t mind having to repeat themselves if someone asks them the same question they were asked five minutes ago. Small children are still learning what is normal behaviour, so even a resident with Alzheimer’s Disease seems like any other person to them. Sharing their preschool classes with seniors gives the children an invaluable opportunity to learn compassion and acceptance.
Magic happens when you combine the youthful vitality of preschool children and a senior care home. Compassionate, empathetic bonds and loving friendships are formed creating life-changing benefits for both the young and old. Warman is fortunate to have such a collaboration between Golden Health Care Diamond House Personal Care Home and Little Learners Preschool where the little ones bring a unique sense of vibrancy and fun to the home and to the lives of the residents.
Saskatoon Brass Bands Inc. is hosting the 7th Annual Prairie Music Residency for Brass and Percussion players. The Residency brings a National and International flavour to Saskatchewan by drawing clinicians and performers from Europe and throughout North America. This year they are pleased to welcome guest conductor Tom Davoren (Wales), brass guest soloists Joanna Ross-Hershy (USA), Tom Hutchinson (England), Dean McNeill (Canada), drummer guest jazz artist Sarah Thawer (Canada), and Dr. Andrea Venet (USA) as percussion director and soloist.
Warman is fortunate to be the venue for the Saturday evening brass band concert. This event at the Legends Centre on Saturday, August 10 features internationally acclaimed guest artists Conductor Tom Davoren,Tuba Soloist Joanna Ross-Hersey, and Cornet Soloist Tom Hutchinson.
Tom Davoren is the Associate Conductor/Composer of Fairey Band/Desford Colliery and Associate Lecturer/Director of Bands at University of Salford in England, Joanna Ross-Hersey is President of the International Women’s Brass Conference and Associate Professor of Tuba/Euphonium at the University of North Carolina, USA, and Tom Hutchinson is Principle Cornet of the Cory Band which is the number one ranked brass band in the world for the past 11 years. The Concert Series (admission by donation): Thursday August 8, 7 pm Faculty Recital at Queen’s House Retreat, Chapel Friday August 9, 10 pm Jazz night with Sarah Thawer at Louis’ Campus Pub Saturday August 10, 7 pm Brass Band Showcase Concert at Legends Centre Theatre in Warman Sunday August 11, 1 pm Percussion Gala Concert at Quance Theatre, Education building U of S Prairie Music Residency is a 5-day course for brass and percussion musicians that draws players of all ages from across North America and beyond. Musicians take part in a series of rehearsals, clinics, masterclasses and other performance opportunities that culminate in two concerts with the guest soloists, conductors and clinicians. For more information: www.pmresidence.ca Discover Warman has teamed up with Atlas Outdoors Cycle & Recreation in Warman to bring you a chance to win a brand new set of 3 Disc Golf Discs. We are fortunate in Warman to have a beautiful 9 hole-disc golf course and we want to encourage you to get out there and try it! You can pick up a scorecard with the course map at Atlas Outdoors (#2-521 Neufeld Street, Warman), play a round of disc golf and return your completed scorecards to be entered into the draw to be made on September 30, 2019.
Summer can be a tough time when it comes to budgeting. Don’t fear, in Warman there are many things your family can do to have fun without spending money. Check out this list of free, fun activities. With a little creativity you are sure to come up with even more! Check out our events calendar and our news posts on DiscoverWarman.com regularly. There’s always something fun—and free—going on in Warman.
1. Go to the Farmers’ Market
The Farmers’ Market at the parking lot of Warman City Hall is a fun place to walk around, try samples, and browse the locally grown food and crafts every Thursday from 2 pm to 6 pm. Some upcoming special event days at the Farmers Market this season: Rider Day on Thursday, August 29 (wear green and be entered in a special draw), Customer Appreciation Day on Thursday, September 19 (free coffee and Timbits and live music).
2. Head to the park for a picnic or a game of tennis
Warman has many parks to discover and they are the perfect place to spend special time with friends or family. Pack a snack or a simple lunch and spend the afternoon enjoying a new park or one that you love. Bring along some outdoor games like Spike Ball, play catch or kick around a soccer ball. Get a friendly game of football going or fly a kite. If you picnic at Lions Park on Warman’s east side, you can challenge your friends to a game of horseshoes, tennis or beach volleyball. The possibilities are endless!
3. Find the local geocaches
You might be surprised at how many geocaches are hidden around Warman waiting to be found! Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. You can navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location. This is an exciting, family-oriented activity. To get started you’ll need a GPS and a free membership at geocaching.com. Bring your sense of adventure and have fun whether you go alone, with family or a group of friends.
4. Hit the skate park or BMX track
You’ll find scooters, skateboards, bikes and inline skates zipping around Warman’s 14,875 square foot concrete skate park at Prairie Oasis Park. This excellent facility is meant to be a challenge with a large bowl, kickers (ramps) and rails creating a combination of obstacles that appeal to beginners and the more advanced. It’s also great fun biking on Warman’s BMX track right next to the skate park. These activities bring out child-like joy learning some new skills while having a great time. Wear your safety gear!
5. Cool off at the spray park
The perfect way to cool off on a hot day is by taking advantage of our spray park. Multiple water features make it wonderfully refreshing for all ages. Pack your sunscreen and make a day of it! Eat your lunch at one of the handy picnic tables or throw a blanket on the grass, kick back and relax while the kids delight in the fun playground and run free in the expansive green space of Lions Park.
6. Go to a movie
Every Saturday at 1:00 pm head to the theatre at Warman Community Middle School for a child-friendly movie. Open to everyone (come even if you don’t have kids!), this is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, especially on a cool or rainy day. Senior/Adult movies are offered on the first Wednesday of the month at 1:00 pm. Hosted by Warman Community Library, this activity is totally free!
7. Play disc golf
Disc Golf is our newest recreational activity and it’s free to play. Bring your disc golf discs and your friends to play this popular sport. The rules are similar to tradtional golf but using discs you “tee off” by throwing towards a basket. The goal is to sink your disc in the basket with as few throws possible. It’s a great way to get some fresh air, exercise and laughter. You’ll find the disc golf course at Zane Dmytryshyn Park on Warman’s west side. Download and print a scorecard here.
8. Go canoeing or kayaking
Take a stroll over to Prairie Oasis Park where you’ll find a dock to launch your canoe or kayak. You are welcome to paddle around any pond in Warman. What better way than this to enjoy a sunset on a calm summer evening!
9. Expand your knowledge at the library
It is free to get a library card and to borrow a variety of reading and educational materials at the Warman Community Library. They offer many free services and programs for all ages. You can also use their computers for word processing and internet use. Join in on the TD Summer Reading program – check in at the library for details.
10. Go for a walk, run or bike ride
Spending time in nature is proven to have physical, mental and spiritual health benefits. So get outside and get moving! Warman has many kilometres of trails that meander through our many beautiful parks. Put in your headphones or have a friend join you as you get some quality time on the trails. If you have your canine buddy with you, head to the Off-leash Dog Park where you can continue on a path through the park’s 12 acres of open space.
Enjoy summertime in Warman and keep an eye out for activities happening throughout the season!
For those travelling to a provincial park this summer, participation in the Saskatchewan Survival Series is a must – a new, fun and educational program has been developed and designed to help visitors explore parks and learn survival skills.
“Parks are a popular destination for Saskatchewan residents and visitors to our province,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Gene Makowsky said. “This fun program offers visitors, especially new visitors, the opportunity to learn about our parks while getting familiar with safety and survival techniques.”
There are six unique modules to explore in the Survival Series, including:
This is the first year the Survival Series has been offered in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks and it will run until the end of August. Interested participants can visit www.saskparks.com to find when the Survival Series programs are taking place and in which parks.
Put your skills to the test and have some fun as you complete this hands-on program series.
Complete 3 or more modules to claim your survivor swag! Ask park staff for a Survival Series card to participate. Check out the modules below and find your parks date and time for up coming events: (clickable links below)
NOTICE OF ROAD CLOSURE:
On Friday, August 2 a sewer line will be replaced at 308 North Railway Street West. This will result in a road closure to local traffic between 2nd Avenue South and 3rd Avenue South from the morning until job completion. |
NEWS FEED!
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