Autumn 2008
Disc Golf — Tips from an expert
Dave Carter in Montpelier has
been playing disc golf for years, including playing in numerous tournaments.
He offers the following tips to improve your game:
- Practice the elements of throwing separately. First, practice just snapping your wrist to release the disc to see how the way you snap affects the direction the disc travels.
- Then practice moving your arm similar to the way you swing a baseball bat: stay at chest height and follow straight through, release the disc as your arm reaches the furthest point of the body. It’s somewhat of a whipping motion.
- Pay attention to your hips. Swing them at the same time as you swing your arm around.
- The flatter you can release the disc the straighter it will fly. Try to keep it parallel to the ground.
- It’s important not to let go too early or too late.
- A big mistake is throwing the disc too high.
- There are two sets of tees at some courses — the pro and the amateur tees. Don’t look at them as the women’s and men’s tees. When you’re starting, use the closer, amateur tees.
- When you’re learning, if you end up behind a tree and just don’t have a shot, move. It’s about learning and enjoying it.
- Some good, straight throwing discs for beginners: Aviar, Buzzz, Roc, and any disc that says putt and approach.
- When putting, focus on one chain link near the center of the chains, and aim for that one link.
- Instead of facing the basket, turn 90 degrees, so you’re throwing at the basket instead of to it (so your body doesn’t get in the way).
- Watch the way good players throw.
- Some helpful websites: www.gmdgc.org, www.pdga.com and www.nefa.com.
Where to buy discs
- The Center Bakery and General Store in Waterbury Center (near the free Center Chains Disc Golf Course) sells discs and caters to the disc golf crowd.
- Outdoor Gear Exchange sells single discs as well as packages.
- Onion River Sports in Montpelier.
