EVER SINCE ZUG the caveman flung a round rock and brained his worst enemy, Feh, people have been throwing things through the air, trying to get them to fly. It wasn't until the invention of the metal pie tin and its production by the Frisbie Pie Company that college students and other goof-offs the world over had a truly efficient means by which their dreams could be realized.

A lot has happened since those Halcyon days, most notably the development of ding-resistant plastic and the establishment of standards according to which golf discs are now manufactured. Worldwide, the sport of disc golf is gaining popularity daily as more and more people discover it. Among its good points:

• Environmentally friendly: A disc golf course demands no intensive landscaping or maintenance and can be established virtually anywhere. An 18-hole course can be designed to fit a space of about 8-10 acres and demands minimal site preparation prior to use.
• Good exercise: A round of disc golf typically takes between 1½ and 2½ hours and demands that the player walk the course - sometimes 6000 yards - throwing discs all the way. A round of "speed" golf can be completed in less than 20 minutes.
• Economical: As a beginner (or if you like a challenge), you only need one disc to play. These can be bought brand new for as little as six bucks US. Green fees are typically zero and while you may choose to join a local club, membership is not a prerequisite to play the game.
• A social activity: If you show up at a course and hang around for a while, you'll likely get into a game with a person who you've never met before. Playing a round of disc golf is a great way to make a new friend!
• Anyone can play: If you can throw a disc, you can play disc golf. Six-year-old kids, seventy-year-old grandfathers, people in wheelchairs, people with emphysema, 400-pound fullbacks, svelte ballet dancers, all are welcome.
• Sheer unabashed fun: Making something fly through the air and land where you want it to land is a complete joy. Everyone should have this experience at least once in their lives.