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TROY, N.Y. (WNYT) — FlingGolf has only been around for 12 years but has become a fast-growing sport that blends elements of golf and lacrosse, and is making its way to the Capital Region in a big way.

Troy will host the Empire State Open at Frear Park on August 16th and 17th, drawing top players from across the country as part of the New Swarm Tour organized by the World League FlingGolf (WLF).

The sport uses a single “FlingStick” instead of clubs, allowing players to hurl a golf ball down the fairway with a lacrosse-style motion. The result is a faster, more accessible twist on traditional golf—and it’s gaining fans of all ages.

“We’re excited to welcome the top FlingGolfers in the country to Troy and showcase Frear Park as a world-class course and community hub,” said Mayor Carmella Mantello in a statement. “It’s not just a tournament, it’s a celebration of innovation and recreation.”

Tom Cunningham, the New York FlingGolf Ambassador, says the tournament is open to all skill levels, with local clinics already introducing newcomers to the sport.

To preview the action, NewsChannel 13’s Tamara Starr tried her hand at short shots, sand traps, and long flings live at Frear Park for the latest edition of Tamara Tries.

A comprehensive look at local, statewide and national news events is provided by the NewsChannel 13 Team, along with updates on sports and the weather forecast.

Organizers say they are still looking for players for the tournament. Anyone interested can check out their registration page.