The third annual Disc Golf Tournament for Meals on Wheels will kick off on Saturday, Oct. 2 at 11 a.m. This event, which is cosponsored by the UPS stores of Guilford and Clinton and in conjunction with the Parks & Recreation Department, is slated to be a major fundraiser this season for the organization.

Spots are filling up quickly, according to Meals on Wheels Executive Director Christi Burton, who recommends prospective players register sooner rather than later at 203-453-8359.

“We have sold out the past two years and probably will again, so sign up now,” said Burton, who noted the tournament is open to all ages and all levels.

According to Parks & Recreation Director Rick Maynard, disc golf is a blast for all ages.

“I see families with their kids, people playing solo. It is so gratifying to families using the course. Young and old, everyone who plays really enjoys the park and the course,” said Maynard.

The new course, which is named in honor of Maynard, is more than 2 ½ miles long and is touted as a fun and interesting way to spend time with family and friends and to get a healthy walk through the trees. This event runs to approximately 2 p.m. and there is an optional 10 a.m. start for a beginner clinic offered by course designer and disc ambassador Craig Smollen.

Unlike standard golf, with wide open fairways, disc golf is played in and through trees and the existing landscape making for a challenging and natural way to recreate. Instead of a hole, players aim for a standing basket with small chains that deaden the tossed disc to score and make par.

“It’s really fun. When that disc hits the basket chains, it’s like the swish of the net in basketball,” said Maynard. “It’s different every time you play. Some people don’t even keep score; they just walk and toss.”

This event is open to all, as a single or as a group. Individuals will be paired with similarly skilled players, according to Burton.

These events are critical to the organization and donations can be made monetarily or with food. Meals on Wheels is partnered with the town in providing services to Guilford residents, which include up to 120 meals served a day and more than 35,000 a year.

“These events really help us supplement our budget and provide meals those who are in need. We don’t accept state money, so we can serve anyone of any age,” Burton said.

First Selectman Matt Hoey said that Meals on Wheels and the Community Center’s dedication to serving others should be an inspiration for residents.

“This program is an absolutely essential service for…our community. Guilford Inter-Faith Volunteers and everyone involved in this program play a crucial role for those most in need,” Hoey said.

This year’s sponsors include the local Dunkin Donuts who provide coffee and hot chocolate; The Guilford and Clinton UPS stores, whose owner Jeffrey Von Slatern donated the discs; and the town Parks & Recreation Department. Burton also requested residents donate any raffle items as a raffle will be held at the event that day as well.

The third annual Disc Golf Tournament for Meals on Wheels (NOW) and sponsored by the UPS stores of Guilford and Clinton and in cooperation with the Guilford Parks & Recreation Department is on Saturday, Oct. 2 at Bittner Park 1450 Durham Road at 11 a.m. The cost is $30 and includes one disc, score card, and a round of golf. Call MOW at 203-453-8359. to register (spots are filling fast) or for more information and/or to make a monetary or raffle donation. Checks can be sent to Guilford Interfaith Volunteers at 310 State Street Unit 200, Guilford CT 06347.