AN INTRODUCTION TO
DISC GOLF AND
DISC GOLF TECHNIQUES
Prepared by: Stuart Hicks
Glossary of Disc Golf Terms
Throwing
Backhand throw - Results in the player's throwing arm moving across the opposite side of the body before release. This is the most common type of throw. The arm motion is similar to a tennis backhand shot.
Forehand throw - Results in the player's throwing arm moving across the same side of the body before release. Also known as a sidearm throw. The arm motion is similar to a tennis forehand shot.
Hyzer - The Angle of release when the side opposite the the gripped rim of the disc is tilted toward the ground.
Anhyzer - The Angle of release when the side opposite the gripped rim of the disc is tilted toward the sky. NOTE: A disc that is thrown and released at a flat or LEVEL angle, therefore, has neither hyzer nor anhyzer
Fade - A disc that flies to the left, when thrown by a right-hander using a backhand style.
Turnover - A disc that flies to the right, when thrown by a right-hander using a backhand style.
Stable - Refers to a disc that has a tendency to fly in a straight path when released at a level angle.
Overstable - A disc that has a tendency to fade (turn to the left for right-handed players, backhand throw) when thrown and released at a level angle.
Understable - A disc that has a tendency to turnover (turn to the right for right-handed players, backhand throw) when thrown and released at a level angle.
Stability Rating - The stability of a disc refers to its left or right path during flight. A disc that flies essentially straight when thrown flat and with sufficient spin has stability rating of zero. The numbers +1 to +3 indicate an overstable disc. The most overstable rating is +3. The numbers -1 to -3 indicates an understable disc. The highest understable rating is -3. For example, a disc with a rating of +3 will turn to the left more than a disc with a rating of +1. Usually, less stable discs are harder to control. All ratings are for a right handed, backhand throw at average flight speed in zero to light wind conditions (www.discraft.com).
Discs
Driver - A disc designed for fast, long-distance flight. Drivers are the most difficult types of disc to control.
Approach disc - A disc designed for slower, more stable flight.
Putter - A disc designed for close-range, stable flight.
Mini - A small disc which is used to mark a player's lie.
A Brief History of Disc Golf
The idea for the Wham-O Frisbee originated from pie tins created by the Frisbie baking company located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The original pie tins were tossed around by Yale students as a form of recreation. The pie tins came in different sizes ranging from 4 to 10 inches. The pie tins did not fly that well, however.
Fred Morrison and Warren Francioni, a couple of entrepreneurs, experimented with flying disc toys modeled similar to the pie tin. After deciding that metal was not the best substance for the flying disc, they turned to plastic and created a disc by hand in 1948. Morrison then created an injection mold, so that the discs could be mass-produced.
Wham-O purchased the rights to this mold in 1955, and began selling their own version of the "Flying Saucer" a couple of years later. In 1959, Wham-O dubbed the name Frisbee and made it a trademark. The spelling is slightly different than the original pie tin manufacturer. The name was kept similar to capitalize on the popularity of the pie tins (Danna and Poynter 162).
The Founder of Disc Golf
Ed Headrick is considered the founder of disc golf, and the
inventor of the more modern, sports model Frisbee. Ed was born in Pasadena
in 1924, and eventually went to the University of Florida after joining the
Navy. Ed always had an interest in aerodynamics and flying as a kid.
Figure 1: "Steady" Ed Headrick
Ed went to work for Wham-O in 1964, and he was in charge of research and development for 11 years. Ed's main goal was to improve the stability of the Frisbee, and the distance that the disc could fly.
While working for Wham-O in 1967, Headrick received U.S. patent 3,359,678 for what became known as the "professional" or "modern" Frisbee. He incorporated the concentric grooved ridges or "spoilers" on the top of the disc that cut down on the aerodynamic resistance, especially in high-speed flight (By Joel Garreau Washington Post Staff Writer Thursday, August 15, 2002; Page C01).
In 1969, the International Frisbee Association was formed to promote Frisbee as a sport. With the increased improvement of the Frisbee as a product, and increased marketing efforts, the Frisbee gained in popularity in the early 1970's. Various new games involving the Frisbee began to emerge such as Guts, Ultimate, the WFC (World Frisbee Competition) Rose Bowl events in 1974, and Disc Golf.
In 1976, Ed formed his own company, the Disc Golf Association, and invented the disc pole hole. The disc pole hole is a device with chains that can stop the flight of a disc and deposit the disc into a basket suspended on the pole. This invention revolutionized the sport of disc golf.
Figure 2: The disc pole hole (disc target)
Source: http://www.discgolfassoc.com/
Ed Headrick, unfortunately, passed away in August of 2002. After 26 years in the disc golf industry, Ed's last request was to be cremated. His ashes were added to molds, which then become special memorial golf discs. Proceeds from the sale of these discs will go to the non-profit Ed Headrick fund, and the "Steady Ed" Memorial Museum. This story was recently featured on Ripley's Believe it or Not.
The Professional Disc Golf Association
The Disc Golf Association founded by Ed Headrick in 1976 is now known as the PDGA, the Professional Disc Golf Association. The PDGA is a non-profit organization dedicated to worldwide disc golf promotion. Currently, the association has over 20,000 members that live and play in countries all over the world. Every year the PDGA sanctions competitions for professional and amateur players. The PDGA provides rules and standards for play and equipment used in the sport. For more information on the PDGA, reference www.pdga.com.
Disc Golf Basics
A typical disc golf course has 18 holes; thus 18 disc golf targets are used. The person throwing the disc starts at a designated area (tee-pad) on each hole. The object of the game is to throw the disc into the basket in the least number of throws. As in real golf, whoever ends up with the lowest score wins the round. Most holes are par 3, so par for a round of golf (18 holes) would be a total score of 54.
A disc golf course is commonly established at a state or local park. Tee-pads and disc targets are usually purchased and installed by volunteers through local donations and sponsors.
Disc Golf Equipment
· Discs: There are literally hundreds of different disc styles, colors, and weights. A typical disc is about 8.5 inches in diameter, weighs about 170 grams, and costs about ten dollars. The most popular manufacturers of discs are Innova, Discraft, and Lightning. Discs will be discussed in more detail, later.
· Accessories: Disc golf retailers sell many disc golf
accessories such as towels, t-shirts, disc carrying bags, chairs, disc targets,
and umbrellas.
Figure 4: Disc golf carrying bags
Source: www.lightningdiscs.com
· Tee-Pads: The tee-pads at a disc golf course are usually
made of concrete, rubber, dirt, or gravel. The typical dimensions for the
tee-pad is approximately 5' wide x 10' long. An example of a rubber tee-pad
is shown in figure 5.
Figure 5: Typical Tee-pad on a disc golf course
Source: http://www.fly18.com/flypads.html
· Disc Targets: Disc targets are made of galvanized metal and chains. The target's chains are designed to stop the flight of the disc, and then drop the disc into the basket. Disc targets (baskets) come in many different styles. Many competing manufacturers make targets. Disc targets can range in price from $100 to $450, and can be purchased by the general public. For more information on disc target dimensions, see appendix A.
Figure 6: Various Disc Target Styles
Source: http://www.discsunlimited.net/
Disc Golf Rules
The official rules for disc golf are regulated by the PDGA. An official rules book is published every year, and rules are changed and amended constantly. It is beyond the scope of this report to cover all the rules of the sport. For a complete listing of disc golf rules, refer to www.pdga.com. A few of the very basic rules are summarized in this section.
· Teeing Off. A player can use any part of the tee-pad when teeing off. A player is allowed to run up to the front edge of the tee-pad when throwing. The disc must be released while the player's feet are in the tee-pad area. The player is allowed to follow through, or step past the end of the tee-pad after the disc has been released.
· Discs. Discs used during play must meet PDGA standards. A cracked or perforated disc is illegal. Players are not allowed to make post-production modifications to the discs.
· Marking the Lie. After each throw, the disc must be left where it came to rest until the lie is established by the placing of a marker. The marker is placed next to the disc in the direction of the disc target.
· Approach Shots. Any throw AFTER the initial tee off from the tee-pad, and any throw that is more than 10 meters from the disc target (basket) is considered an approach shot. After the lie has been established with a marker, the player may run up to that point to throw the disc. The disc must be released while the foot is directly behind the marker within a distance of 30 centimeters. The player is allowed to follow through, or step past the marker after the disc is released.
· Putting. A throw that is within 10 meters (approximately 30 feet) of the disc target is considered a putt. Again, the player must release the disc while the front foot is directly behind the marker. The player is NOT allowed to go past the marker until the disc has fallen into the basket. In other words, when putting, the player must demonstrate full control of balance before moving toward the basket.
· Order of Play. The order of play is determined by results from the previous holes. A person that birdied the previous hole would throw before a person that made par etc. If there were a tie, then the person with the current lowest score would go first.
· Penalties. There are many ways to be penalized during tournament play. A penalty commonly results in the loss of a stroke on the scorecard. Some examples of penalties are going out-of-bounds, landing in a creek, landing on a road or concrete area, being stuck in a tree over 6 feet off the ground, and forgetting to total your scorecard. Refer to the PDGA Rules of Disc Golf for more details.
Disc Discussions
Figure 7 shows a disc in flight. The disc is similar to an airplane wing. The two forces responsible for disc flight are the forward speed, and the angular momentum (spin). Any forward motion will provide lift, because lower pressure is present on the topside of the disc.
Figure 7: Disc aerodynamics
Source: http://www.sciam.com/
The spin provides stability to the disc. The disk is thicker along the edges, maximizing the angular momentum when it spins. The force of lift is directly in the center of the disc.
A right-hander using the backhand throwing technique will impart a clockwise spin on the disc. One goal for the disc golfer is to throw a disc straight and far. This can be accomplished by providing maximum lift and stability to the disc. In other words, the disc should be thrown with plenty of spin and speed. More spin and speed translates into more distance. The disc should also leave the hand level and flat. There are times when the disc may need to be angled to get around obstacles, but only basic throwing techniques will be discussed in this section.
Choosing a Disc
Since there are so many styles of discs to choose from, only general statements about discs will be made. It will be up to each individual disc golfer to determine the best discs to purchase. The two leading manufacturers of discs for disc golf are Innova and Discraft.
It is assumed that a right-handed backhand throwing technique is used when direction of disc flight is discussed. Also, refer to the glossary for definitions of disc golf terms. Words in bold can be found in the glossary. Listed below are some things to consider when choosing a disc:
· Discs range in weight from 165 to 174 grams, but this
can vary more widely depending on the disc model. More strength is needed
to throw a heavier disc.
· Disc manufacturers use stability ratings for each disc model. This
gives the consumer an idea of the flight characteristics for a particular
disc. A disc that is more overstable requires more lift and angular momentum
(spin) to fly straight. In other words, more speed and spin on the disc is
needed to stabilize or level out the flight path of the disc.
· Discs are made of different kinds of plastic. Newer models use more
durable, long-lasting plastic. These discs may fly better and farther, but
they are more expensive and harder to control. Different types of plastic
will grip to the fingers differently. The amount of spin is determined by
the release off the fingers. The older, more standard plastic is more "sticky",
and easier to grip (and control) than the newer plastic.
· Discs are usually categorized by how far they can travel. Examples
of disc categories are extra long-range drivers, long-range drivers, mid-range
drivers, approach discs, and putters. The main difference between these categories
is the shape of the disc and the shape and size of the outer ridge around
the disc. The distance an individual can throw a particular type of disc depends
on strength, technique, and experience.
· Longer-range drivers fly the farthest, but they are less stable and
harder to control. A professional player may be able to throw a long range
driver 450 feet, while an amateur may throw the same disc only 250 feet.
· An experienced amateur, or advanced player should be able to throw
a driver a maximum distance of 300 to 350 feet.
· Mid-range drivers or approach discs are more stable, easier to control,
and are used at shorter distances. An approach disc might be used for throws
between 100 and 250 feet.
· Wind speed is a major factor when throwing a disc. A heavier, overstable
disc thrown with a lot of speed may travel better under windy conditions,
for example.
· Beginners or weaker players should throw lighter, more stable discs.
The stability rating of the disc should be around +1, and a weight of around
165 grams might be appropriate. A heavier disc should be used if it is windy.
If the disc is being released level and it turns over (goes to the right),
then the disc is being over-powered. It would be best to throw a disc that
is more overstable or maybe heavier.
· Discs that are older and over used tend to become more understable.
Deformations and aging plastic tend to make a disc less aerodynamic with age.
Proper Techniques for Throwing a Disc
When playing disc golf, it is important to throw long and accurate drives. Being able to throw properly is essential, if one wants to develop the needed skills to be a good golfer. This section provides some basic instructions for throwing a disc properly.
NOTE: The instructions given below are for right-handers throwing with a backhand style.
Some Basics on the Finger Grip
The main ingredients that contribute to the distance of a thrown disc are the speed and the spin put on the disc. The legs, hips, back, and shoulders mainly generate this power. The proper transfer of weight during the throwing process is very important. Another key is gripping the disc correctly. Figure 9 demonstrates the backhand, fan grip, which is a popular grip for beginners when "driving" off the tee-pad.
Figure 9: The fan grip
Source: http://www.discgolfassoc.com/
Grip the disc as shown in Figure 9. Almost the entire grip is between the thumb and index finger.
The disc is held even more tightly for longer throws that require more power. For long range drives from the tee-pad, the power grip should be used. Curl the fingers tightly and closely around the rim of the disc. This is known as the power grip, and is shown in Figure 10. The tightness of the grip is somewhat similar to holding up a handbag or suitcase. Bend or "cock" the wrist so that the edge of the disc is close to the inner part of the forearm.
Figure 10: The Power Grip
Source: http://www.innovadiscs.com/juliana/
Preparing to Throw From the Tee-Pad
There are some basic things to think about when throwing a drive from the tee-pad:
· Once the disc is released, no more energy is available
to give the disc more speed and spin.
· All the energy is generated as the disc is moving forward across
the body, and when it snaps off the fingertips.
· The closest distance between two points is a straight line. As the
disc is pulled across the body, the path should be a straight line and aimed
towards the target. The disc should be level when released.
· The throwing motion is similar to snapping a towel across the body.
To get a good snap, the motion of the hand and arm is straight across the
body and the wrist and fingers generate the snap at the end of the motion.
· The twisting of the lower parts of the body help to generate the
upper body power. The legs, hips, and waist are used to help generate arm
and shoulder speed.
· The arm should be kept fairly straight when throwing. Bending the
elbow, or trying to use just the elbow to throw will cause a loss of power.
Stand about five feet from the front edge of the tee-pad. The shoulders and feet should be in line with the direction of the throw as shown in Figure 11. Hold the disc using the power grip. Bend slightly at the knees so that you a squatting about 2 inches. The feet should be shoulder length apart.
Figure 11: Preparing to throw
Source: http://www.discgolfassoc.com/
The series of photographs in figure 12 show a professional disc
player going through the proper throwing sequence.
Figure 12: Barry Schultz demonstrating his throwing style
Source: (Disc Golf World News, winter 2002, pg. 70)
· Frame 1: The Wind Up. The disc is brought back
across the body. As this is done, the weight of the body is shifted forward
on the right leg. A power grip is used, and the disc is cocked toward the
inner part of the forearm. Both feet are in line with the target.
· Frame 2: The Crosss Step. The body starts to twist in a counter-clockwise
direction. The left foot is brought forward and behind the right foot.
· Frame 3: The Power Pull. As the hips, waist, and shoulders
continue twisting, the disc is brought all the way across the body past the
left shoulder. The arm is straight, and the weight is on the left leg. The
disc is now ready to be pulled forward across the body. At this point the
right leg extends towards the target.
· Frame 4: Generating Disc Speed. The body begins to twist clockwise
towards the target. At the same time, the disc is being pulled across the
body. Most of the weight of the body is now transferred to the right foot.
The body should start uncoiling through the hips, waist, and shoulders. During
this process keep the head relaxed and stay balanced. Both feet should still
be in direct line with the target.
· Frame 5: The Snap and Release. The arm is pulled straight
across the body. As the arm becomes fully extended towards the target, the
wrist should naturally uncock and the disc should be allowed to snap off the
edge of the fingers. The disc should be released level, and not angled in
any direction.
· Frames 6 and 7, The Follow Through. The body is allowed to
uncoil completely in a clockwise direction. The right arm is fully extended
after the release. The left arm and shoulder turn with the rest of the body.
Putting
When the disc lies within 10 meters (approximately 30 feet) from the disc target, the next throw is considered a putt. The grip style used to throw the putt is different than the drive. There is no, one correct putting style. The style that is the most comfortable and effective is the style to use. Some golfers putt with their feet in line with the target, while others use an open stance. It is common to use a slightly open stance when putting. The feet are shoulder length apart, but the right foot is 30 to 45 degrees off the target line. In other words, the body is turned slightly so that the chest is facing the target. A modified fan grip is common for putting. The grip is shown below.
Figure 13: Fan Grip used for putting
Source: http://www.innovadiscs.com/juliana/
Figure 14: Putting with a slightly open stance
Source: (Disc Golf World News, spring 2001, pg. 18)
Controlling the distance and speed of a putt is the main goal. This involves timing and muscle control. Accuracy will be improved when all of the proper techniques are implemented. Here are some steps to follow when putting:
· Spread the feet apart so that you have a slightly open
stance. The feet should be approximately shoulder width apart with the right
foot closest to the disc target. The body should be relaxed and balanced.
The knees should be slightly bent.
· Another vital factor when putting is the shifting of body weight.
When the disc is released the weight of the body should shift forward onto
the ball of the right foot. The motion of the arm should be in line with the
target so that the disc travels into the chains of the basket. Practice rocking
the weight of the body from the back foot to the front foot, and extend the
arm holding the disc towards the target a couple of times.
· When the putt starts, the disc is close to the body around the belt-buckle
area. The weight is on the back foot.
· The arm with the disc is then brought up and forward towards the
disc target. As the arm is being extended, the body weight begins to shift
forward and upward. In a sense, you are lunging towards the target without
moving the feet. The weight is being transferred to the front foot. Imagine
the disc as being a big weight. The weight needs to be pushed upwards and
forward so that it will arc into the basket (Ken Climo, http://www.kenclimo.com/).
· Your arm should be fully extended towards the target and about shoulder
high when the disc is released. When the disc is released, don't snap the
wrist. Just flick the disc off the end of the hand.
· Refer to appendix D for putting during windy conditions.
Remember, when putting the player has to show and maintain balance until the putt is completed. The front foot should not move until the flight of the disc has ended. It takes a lot of practice to become accurate and consistent at putting. Remember to shift the body weight, extend, and follow through!
Figure 15: A professional putt
Source: (Disc Golf World News, fall 2002 pg. 18)
Conclusions
The sport of disc golf has been growing in popularity in recent years. New disc courses are being built throughout the country. The sport is fun, easy to learn, and relatively inexpensive. The entire family can enjoy a day at the park, and play a round of disc golf together. For the more serious player, the PDGA sanctions tournaments for amateur and professional players. Local disc golf clubs sponsor events, and promote the game within the community.
Hopefully, this report will help the reader to become more familiar and enthusiastic about the sport. The report is intended to increase current players disc golf skills, also. In the words of Ed Headrick, "The father of disc golf is watching you!"
REFERENCES
Danna, Mark and Dan Poynter. Frisbee Players' Handbook. Parachuting Publications, 1978.
Bloomfield, Louis. "The Flight of the Frisbee." Scientific American.com. April 1999 <http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=000155A0-6D59-1C71-9EB7809EC588F2D7>.
DiscLife.com. "Disc Golf Resources." <http://www.disclife.com/terms.shtml>.
Rogers, Dennis. "Disc Golf Terms." <http://www.airfairways.com/terms.htm>
Disc Golf Association. "How to Throw." < http://www.disclife.com/terms.shtml>.
Climo, Ken. "Putting and Distance." <http://www.kenclimo.com/>.
Korver, Juliana. "Disc Golf Grips." <http://www.innovadiscs.com/juliana/Grips/backhandpage.htm>.
Discraft. "Stability Rating Information." <http://www.discraft.com/golf_discs.htm>.
Innova. "DISCattcher Specifications." <http://www.innovadiscs.com/discatcher/index.html>.
Disc Golf Association. "An Abbreviated History of Disc
Golf."
<http://www.discgolfassoc.com/history.html>.
Professional Disc Golf Association. "PDGA Official Rules
of Disc Golf." February 2002.
<http://www.pdga.com/>.
Pozzy, Theo. "How Important is Disc Speed?" Disc Golf World News 57 (spring 2001) 24+.
Pozzy, Theo. "Getting More Distance." Disc Golf World News 60 (winter 2002) 70+.
APPENDICES
| Appendix A: Disc Golf Target Details
The main components for a target are the chain rack, chains, basket, pole, collar, and installation tube. Figure 3 shows a typical disc golf target made by Innova, Inc. All dimensions are shown in inches. This target is approved by the PDGA, and is found on many disc golf courses. Here is a summary of the target components: 1. Chain Rack: This is made of 13 gauge steel, and is 22"
in diameter. This component resembles a spoked wheel. The chains hang
from metal rods that extend from the center collar of the rack (shown
in the partial cut-away view of the rack). The rack slips over the end
of the pole and is then bolted to the top of the pole. This particular model is a permanent disc target. A hole is dug into
the ground and concrete is poured around the installation tube. The
pole is then inserted into the installation tube. The |
 Figure 16: DISCatcher by Innova Source: www.innovadiscs.com/discatcher/ |
Appendix B: Research Results Regarding Disc Speed and Distance
A Northwest disc golfer, Theo Pozzy, performed a study in the summer of 2000. The relationship between the speed of a disc and the distance that it travels is shown in the chart below. A radar gun was used to make the measurements. Professional disc golfers throwing at a "distance competition" in New Mexico were the subjects of the study.
Chart 1: Relationship between disc speed and distance traveled
Source: (Disc Golf World News, spring 2001, pg. 25)
The speed of the disc is shown on the horizontal axis. The chart shows a good correlation between speed and distance. For example, a disc thrown correctly and efficiently at a speed of 50 mph is likely to travel about 300 feet. Reaching a distance of 400 feet or more requires a disc speed of around 70 to 75 mph. The circled group of plots seems to be a slight anomaly. It shows a group of discs that traveled a long distance, but with a slower disc speed. This might be attributed to the amount of spin imparted on the disc, the height that it was thrown, and wind direction. Increased angular momentum (spin) will help keep the disc stable and aloft for a longer period of time.
The weight and model of discs thrown varied from player to player. This factor also contributed to how fast a disc was thrown, and how far it glided. The most popular weights of disc used by the professionals in this study were 165 grams (11%), 172 grams (10%), 174 grams (14%), and 175grams (17%). The disc models that flew the farthest were the Discraft Xtra, Innova Teebird , Discraft XL, and Innova Eagle.
Additional speed and distance measurements were taken using amateur players. Table 1 gives the disc golfer an idea about the level of expertise needed to play in a particular division.
Table 1: Distance based on division rating
Appendix C: Additional Disc Golf Terms
Ace - A hole-in-one.
Par - The average number of throws for an experienced player to complete a hole. Pro par is generally three on any given hole.
Birdie - Completing a hole at one under par.
Tee Pad - A designated area where players begin each hole. Also known as a tee box.
Lie - The spot where a disc lands and where the next shot is taken from.
Mandatory or mando - A flight path that must be followed in order to complete a hole.
Pole Hole - A brand name disc golfing target, or basket. Other brands include Chainstar and DISCatcher.
TD - A tournament director.
Taco - Term used for a warped disc, which has hit a tree or solid object.
Sandbagger - A tournament player who competes in a division below his or her skill level.
Summary of Amateur PDGA rating levels from PDGA.COM
· Advanced - the top amateur division, available to amateur players of all ages. Upcoming players who have played 2-3 years and are gaining consistency and experience. Throw 250-425 feet, make 5-7/10 putts from 25-30 feet, developing different shots. Score range: 47-57 (Par is 54 for 18 holes)
· Advanced Master - the top amateur division for players who will be 40 years of age or older during the current year (born 1962 or earlier). Score Range: 51-61
· Advanced Grandmaster - for skilled amateur players who will be 50 years of age or older during the current year (born 1952 or earlier). Score Range: 54-66
· Advanced Women - the top women's amateur division, available to female players of any age. Upcoming players who have played 2-3 years and are gaining consistency and experience. Throw 175-275 feet, make 4-6/10 putts from 25-30 feet, developing different shots. Score Range: 58-65
· Intermediate - for players who have developed basic Frisbee® and disc golf skills and/or have tournament experience. Throw 175-300 feet, make 4-6/10 putts from 20 feet, can throw backhand with some accuracy. Score range: 55-64
· Intermediate Women - for players who have developed basic Frisbee® and disc golf skills and/or have tournament experience. Throw 125-200 feet, make 3-6/10 putts from 20 feet, can throw backhand with some accuracy. Score range: 65-74
· Novice - for beginning players who are learning basic Frisbee® and disc golf skills. Score range: 65+
· Juniors - for players under the ages of 16 and 12 on the date the tournament ends.
Appendix D: Troubleshooter's Guide
|
Problem
|
Cause
|
Correction
|
|
Disc flies wobbly |
Not enough
power, or improper body mechanics Disc is tilted upwards. Loose Grip. |
1. Try uncoiling the body faster. |
| Disc breaks to the left consistently, or too soon. |
Disc is being
released with hyzer, or poor speed on the disc. Disc is too overstable. |
1. Make sure the disc is level |
| Disc breaks to the right. |
Disc is released with anhyzer. Disc is too high When pulled across the body. The disc is old or warped. |
1. Make sure disc is level when thrown and released. 2. Make sure disc is between shoulder and waist when pulled across the body. 3. Throw a disc that is more overstable. 4. Try throwing with less power 5. Try throwing a newer disc. |
| Disc slips out off the hand, or hits the ground too soon. |
Grip is too loose, or disc is released too soon. |
1. Grip the disc tighter. 2. Follow through and let the disc release off the fingers automatically. 3. Make sure the disc is the proper height and level when released. |
Appendix E: Informative Disc Golf Web Links
Discs
· Innova: http://www.innovadiscs.com/
· Discraft: http://www.discraft.com/
· Millinnium: http://golfdisc.com/
· Lightning: http://www.lightninggolfdiscs.com/
Disc Targets and Tee-Pads
· Innova: http://www.innovadiscs.com/discatcher/index.html
· Discraft: http://www.discraft.com/baskets.htm
· Ching: http://www.chingpro.com/targets.htm
· Dolf: http://www.dolf.com/
· Fly-18: http://fly18.com/flypads.html
Disc Golf Organizations
· Oregon Disc Sports Alliance: http://odsa.com/
· Disc Golf Association: http://www.discgolfassoc.com/
· Professional Disc Golf Association: http://www.pdga.com/
· International Disc Federation: http://www.idf-online.com/
· World Flying Disc Federation: http://www.wfdf.org/
Figure 20: The author teeing off at DeLaveaga in Santa Cruz
Source: Photo by Pete Thayer