In the Kingdom of the Sky, Only the Strong Survive - An ElevateUT Raptor Series Recap
Folks, as the Storm Wing Summit rages on over the River Bottoms Disc Golf Course, our Talon Masters are locked in a swirling dance of disc and wind, battling for supremacy in the kingdom of the sky. With mysterious rivals emerging from the mists and cryptic revelations lurking in the tempest's heart, only those with the focus of a hawk and the courage of an eagle will rise to contend for aerial dominance.
In the vaunted MPO division, Houston Finch soared above the field, his discs cutting through the gale like a peregrine's wings. With a staggering 10 throw victory and a blistering -12 (1038 rated), Houston hunted this course with the deadly efficiency of a falcon on the dive. Tyler Waldo and Landon Adams fought valiantly, but today, there was no denying the king of the skies.
The MP40 division saw a territorial duel for the ages, as Sean Kelley and Zachary Melville circled each other like rival hawks vying for the choicest hunting grounds. With 3 lead changes, these warriors traded perches more times than a restless flock in a windstorm! In the end, it was Sean Kelley who emerged victorious, fending off the upstart Zachary Melville with the resolve of a battle-hardened raptor.
In MA40, Derik Thomas showcased the patience and opportunism of an osprey, biding his time as Brian Cocanour led early. But when the moment was right, Derik struck with swift precision, seizing the lead and never looking back. With a commanding 14 throw victory, Derik proved that sometimes, the key to success is knowing when to fold your wings and when to soar.
The FA2, MA1, MA2, MA3, and MA4 divisions all saw impressive displays of skill and resolve, with Marta Villa, Aaron Detterer, Dylan Mundy, Kalen Adams, and Brian Bowling rising to the top like fledglings taking their first triumphant flights. Though they may not yet be ready to contend with the likes of Houston Finch and Sean Kelley, these rising stars show the adaptability and determination of young raptors learning to navigate the unpredictable winds of competition.
Special recognition goes to Derik Thomas, who not only triumphed in MA40 but also snatched the CTP on hole 17 like an eagle plucking a fish from a rushing river - a true master of precision! That laser of a shot earned Derik an extra $30 in his talon-print wallet.
Folks, as the Storm Wing Summit reaches its crescendo, the tempest is gathering, and I fear the true test of our Talon Masters' mettle is yet to come. But after today, I have no doubt they will face the maelstrom with wings spread wide and talons at the ready! For in the kingdom of the sky, only the strong survive, and these aerial warriors have proven they have the heart and the skill to dance with the wind and emerge victorious. Until next time, may your discs fly true and your spirit soar like the raptors of old!
Flippy's Hot Take