When you arrive at Lake Hillsboro and see the newly completed Brewer’s Spring Disc Golf Course, it’s hard not to feel the energy of something thoughtfully built — a space transformed from underused land into a thriving hub of play, history, and community.

That vision began with David McCormack of Gateway Disc Golf in Missouri, who was instrumental in designing the course and joined city officials on Saturday, Oct. 11, for the official grand opening.

“My specialty is turning underutilized areas into recreational ones,” said McCormack, whose work spans dozens of courses across the Midwest.

McCormack recalled that he and Hillsboro Superintendent of Parks, Lakes and Public Properties, Jim May, had been planning the project for quite some time. Though they initially considered other locations, inspiration struck when they pulled into the Fireman’s Clubhouse at Lake Hillsboro.

“The hair on my arms stood up,” McCormack said. “And I thought, now this is disc golf.”

From that moment, the vision began to take shape. McCormack typically designs competitive-level courses, but this one, he explained, was meant to “bridge the gap between recreational and competition,” featuring two tees on every hole to accommodate players of varying skill levels.

May expressed deep appreciation for McCormack’s input throughout the process, saying the final result wouldn’t have been the same without his expertise.

“It’s this beautiful setting,” May said. “And we’re super proud of it.”

The course features 18 holes — a front nine and back nine — both starting and ending near the Fireman’s Clubhouse. Its name, Brewer’s Spring, carries a piece of local history: water from a spring on the back nine was once used by a brewery in the 1860s. A historical marker at hole 15 commemorates that past.

Following the ribbon-cutting, McCormack offered a live demonstration to nearly 50 attendees, showcasing different throws and approaches for new and seasoned players alike. The excitement continued as Silly Goose Disc Golf of Hannibal, MO, hosted a two-person tournament throughout the afternoon.

In the Mixed Amateur 1 Division, first place went to “Pudding Arm,” featuring Austin Herkert and Aaron Herkert.
In the Recreational Division, “Putt Stuff” (Keith Busse and Jennifer Busse) claimed first, followed by “Softball Antagonizers” (Dave Jordan and Greg Schadegg) in second.

Each participant received a free Hillsboro disc — a small but fitting token to celebrate the community’s newest recreational gem.

To explore the course for yourself, visit Brewer’s Spring Disc Golf Course on UDisc.

You can also read the original coverage of the event by Mary (Galer) Herschelman at The Journal-News: Hillsboro Hosts Grand Opening At Disc Golf Course.