I'm curious about driving distance for different players. If you don't mind, please answer these questions:

How far is your average drive for distance?

Your personal best?

How where these distances measured? (estimated, stepped off, tape, etc.) I ask this because until I started accurately measuring my throws, I thought that I was throwing farther than I actually was.

How long have you been playing disc golf?

What is your longest disc?

My answers are as follows:
Average drive-300'
Longest drive-375'
Measure by laser range finder.
Playing DG-1 and 1/2 years
Longest disc-Valkyrie

Danny Wallette
#15636

I measure by throwing from home plate of a baseball diamond and the fence is 230 feet all around, so I measure by pacing how far past the fence it went.

Average drive-
275' backhand
325' chicken wing
350 side arm including roll

Longest drive-
325' backhand
350' chicken wing
460' side arm including very long roll

Playing DG 4 months

Longest disc-
whippet backhand
XL chicken wing
X-Clone side arm

These assume one is *trying* for distance, of course. On a 300' hole I would hope not to throw 330' http://pdga.com/discus/clipart/happy.gif I can only throw backhand.

Average level drive
320'-330' (can often get 350')

Longest level drive (was a fluke, I think)
about 405'

Anticipate getting 400' on demand next year!

Playing DG:
almost 2.5 years (am 53 years old)

Longest disc, currently
XS (longest throw was something
of a fluke with a flippy Eagle)

When asking such questions, note that there is a difference between throwing for distance and driving. Distance throwing is on level ground, unobstructed, with no roll or skip. Driving can be uphill, downhill, crazy wind, crazy rolls, trees, etc. Overall, like you, you'll find most people think they throw farther than they really do.

Average Drive for Distance: Probably about 320

Average Throw for Distance: Probably about 320

Best Drive: Level ground, I'm guessing around 500 or so on a roller with a huge tailwind at Round Rock. I've had a 540 foot drive (air) on a 680 foot downhill hole, but that's not real impressive.

Best Throw: Competition - 426. Non-competition - 453. Level ground, tape measure.

How do I measure: Tape usually.

Years playing DG: 7

Longest Disc: Consistently Eagle, but have started throwing the Valkyrie, and it goes a freakin' mile. Have had huge throws with Cyclone, Panther roller, Stingray roller, etc.

Husker,
You are correct that I needed to be more specific in my question. I did in fact mean a throw on level ground with no roll.

By drive, I was wanting to know distance obtained by a normal driving technique as used in a game as opposed to a 360 degree spin.

I agree about the Valkyrie-it rocks. The XS is also a very good disc, but I get a little better distance with the Valkyrie.

If I had to limit myself to 2 drivers right now, they would be the Firebird and the Valk. I'm anxious to try out both of those in the Champion Edition plastic.

<FONT FACE="Courier New">My answers are as follows:

Average drive - 320'
Longest drive this year - 390' (XL,opposite hand!)
Measured on a football field with yard markers
Playing DG about 13 years? (45 yrs old)
Longest disc - Valkyrie/XS

-- kurt from Seattle</FONT>

Average drive: 200-250 (best guess)
Longest drive: 300 (maybe a bit farther)
Measure by best guess
Playing DG for couple months
Longest disc: KC Eagle or JLS

The one and only JBR!

Average Drive - 380-400
Longest Drive - about a mile and a half off an overlook (in the air for about 50 seconds til we couldn't see it any more) http://pdga.com/discus/clipart/happy.gif
Longest measured Distance - 531'-laser binoculars
Playing 18 years - age 36
Longest Disc - Viper / Eagle - haven't gotten to the Valkyrie yet

Isn't there a boast specific forum?

Anyway I just started throwing Golf discs 6 months ago.
My Avg dist is 375'
Personal best is 480' thrown last sunday,(3-5mph tailwind)
The 480' was thrown with a cyclone, but the xs and XL have both broken 450' for me.
I throw on a marked football field then I tape the rest.

Avg. throw = 360'ish (goalpost to goalpost)I can toss a Roc and Condor consistantly 320-360.

Longest measured throw = 410 Laser rangefinder at Wisconsin Overalls discs---TeeBirds and KC Eagles

I have a Valkyrie but haven't 'opened it up' yet in a field.

Yrs. playing DG--- 3

My answers are as follows:
Average drive-310'
Longest flat drive-365'
Measure by walking off (both distance from tee to disc and distance from disc to basket)

Playing DG - 2.5 years, 6 months seriously
Longest disc-Valkyrie

btl.
PDGA#17404

Avg. distance throw 380-400

Max. distance 500 estimated with a beat KC eagle

I have just started throwing the Valkyrie. The other day I overdrove the 408ft hole on the local course by 30 ft with it. To bad it was also about 50 ft to the right of the basket. I need to work in the field some, but right now I am focusing on my putting game.

I have been playing for almost 2 years.

Avg. backhand 310'
Longest backhand 385'
Avg. sidearm 240'
Longest sidearm 303'

Measured on soccer or football field pacing.

Backhand discs : Eagle, TL Teebird, Valkyrie all about the same.

Sidearm distance discs: Polaris LS, JLS

I have some homemade drivers that add 60 ft. to backhand and more to sidearm. Dangerous and not PDGA legal, though.

Playing every day for one year, with lots of distance practice. Age 45.

Average Measured Drive 350-375
Longest Measured Drive 410
Longest Measured Roller 500

This was all from last year, when I was practicing at the University of Maryland on two football fields laid end to end (750 feet of flat, well marked, well manicured turf). I did not get out to the practice field this year due to an elbow injury, but I am guessing that my throws are about the same. Based on my tournament play, I have an average arm for pros who are battling it out for lower end cash. Also based on my experience, a large majority of DGers do not throw as far as they claim. DD

average drive 300-325'
longest drive 500' hole 13 renaissance park witnessed by stan mcdaniel.
longest roller 480'
i throw eagles, firebirds, TL t-birds
i've been playing 3yrs. age 40
sorry to waste space, i will not do it again.

Average drive: 380-420
Longest drive: 495 feet, 15 feet long on a 480 ft. hole, with a cobra! Huge anhyzer with 30 mph left to right tail wind.
Longest Drive ever: A long freakin ways! From a mountain top in Pakistan, I threw a gazelle that flew forever, then quit spinning. It looked like it was getting ready to hyzer off, but instead it started falling like a flapping duck.
Longest roll: 535 feet, many times. Most recent hole F at the VPO, chains left on the putt.
I've been playing since '88 and use KC eagles, Rocs, and aviars. I use an XL to roll.

Average drive-225'
Longest drive-around 350'
Measure by soccer field pacing
Playing DG-1 year
Longest disc-light Eagles

I've also noticed a ton of people think that they can drive 350' on the course, but not alot of people are actually doing it.

Yah, well, people who are proud of their drives are more likely to post, so this is no random poll.

Average drive-340'-380'
Longest measured-435'
Favorite driver-JLS

Avg. Distance Backhand: 360'
Avg. Distance Forehand: 340'
Best Backhand: 430' w/175g DX Leopard! Close to that with both an XS and a Teebird. Think XS is longest (haven't thrown Valkyrie).
Best Forehand: 410' w/166g DX Firebird
Measured by: Measuring wheel used to set up new 19th hole in adjacent field for tournament.
Playing DG for: exactly 6 months.
Longest Discs: BH-XS then Teebird
FH-Firebird then Eagle
I have a suspicion that the Eagle is longer than the Firebird, but I just can't seem to get them to move right. Jazzed at the prospect of Getting some Valkyries.

It's Murphy's law that the longest drives never happen on the course when everybody is watching, the longest "fluke" throws happen when it doesn't count and nobody's watching.

Worst distance throw I ever made in my life came in a tournament (Warwick, NY). It went about 250 feet in the air and then it came about 200 feet back for a total distance of 50 feet.

I threw a drive directly backward into a bushy tree for negative yardage. The record is said to be -200 feet.

Average Measured Drive 310-320 (Eagles and XLs)
Longest Measured Drive 380 (Eagle)
Longest Measured Roller 450 (#1 Flyer)

Measured by: Tape measure in a field behind my house.
I have been playing for 21 years, age 40.
I just got some Valkyries and they fly long.
Yesterday I threw one on a hole I know is around 400ft. and parked it. I can't wait to throw them in the field to see how far they go.
Vernon
PDGA #7933

Average drive: 320-350 ft.
Longest drive: 402 ft(these are walked off measurements to where the disc touched ground first, pretty accurate).

Been playing disc golf for 2.5 years.
Longest discs would be;
1-Valkyrie(of course)
2-slightly beat firebird
3-KC eagle

Average drive-350'
Longest drive-475'w/ 138g whippet
Measure by measured rope.
Playing DG- 21 Years
Longest disc-Firebird and Teebird

Nick Kight
#4861

Mmmmm my average drive is about 365. My longest is about 405 I think, I threw that on a football field from a running track about 90 feet behind the goalpost, the throw went to the 5 yard line on the other side of the field. I'm not sure how accurate that field is (shrug). Been playing since I was a very small child but only for a few years seriously, I'm 18 now. The disc I can throw the farthest is a slightly worn KC Eagle, or a brand new KC Firebird, not sure why they are so understable but they fly nicely new. -Cody

average: 400
personal best:570 measured with a laser sight
playing for about 5 years now
all of these max wieght fly about the same distance for me: new kc firebird, beat firebird, slightly beat eagle, slightly beat kc teebird, slightly beat voyager (dont ask)
Im nineteen years old and playing out of seattle
Toby henderson #11456
..hey kurt bayne hows it going if you read this send me that close but no cigar article.

Average drive - 350
Longest drive (intentional)- half a dozen in the 420 range
Measured - football field paces (360 goal to goal verified by wheel)
Years playing - 4.5
Longest disc - moderatly used eagles and exp'1s - now throw only KC eagle as they wear best (imho)
Longest drive (shank) - approx 500' shank (slightly downhill) crossing two other fairways and ending with a 6 in front of a lot of people (oh yeah, there is one to brag about).

Average- 400-425
Longest drive- ????? Hard to say, I was standing 150ft behind a soccer field and threw to about 50 past....my math tells me that is 500 , I have done it a couple of times
years played - 4
Longest disc- XL or XS or TL
Richard P. Lewis 15,597

Average Drive? What about 250 ft holes? 320-330

Longest Drive - 410, measured by driving 45 wide of but on line with a 410 foot hole

Years Playing - Uh, a lot. Twenty? 2.5 in the Modern Era. The previous were "Real men play golf with one disc" years with either a 165 or, later, an Aero. Oh yeah, the Modern Era also is when I started playing several times a week versus once a month or less before.

Longest disc - it was the flippy run of KC Firebird, 169g.

Best Consistent disc - 168-169g DX Eagle.

Alright, let's hear from the ladies.

Avg. Drive 250 - 275
Longest 350 - downhill with tailwind.

Years playing 4 - started at age 37 (I've always been a Master!)

I practice throws at 280' soccer field measured with a wheel.

Best distance XL or JLS

i believe all this talk concerning driving distance is much like a pissing contest, when we all know if you jack the 30-footer for deuce, it is still a three. putting is all the game is. thank you.

Who needs to make 30' putts when I throw it longer right under the basket for a drop-in. ;-) I also know I get better lies for those putts by going around, or past all the obstacles that the short-arms have to wind their Aviars through. Having said that, I DO believe that the short game is more important, just don't ignore the stroke shaving possibilities afforded to long-arms that the shorties don't get. Besides, I predict that this game of ours isn't always going to be about slamming in 30' open, dead-straight putts as more courses are going to be engineered more for controlled flightpaths from tee all the way into the basket. Please excuse the (slight) digression.

I say drive away. Yeah it may be drive for show, putt for dough, but in the end the chics still say its the size of the drive that matters. Oh wait, uh.....maybe not. Anyways, I'd rather crush one over the lake at Rock Hill than sink a 40 footer anyday. Well unless that 40 footer was to win and sometimes those lake shots don't always make it and um... well never mind I'm gonna continue to crush 'em and chuck 'em at the basket. And if Doug's there I'm gonna crush him with my Zephyr!

I have been playing for about 13 years now and I can drive about 420 acuarately my longest drive is about 520-530 with a number of discs but with the new xs by discrat i think i might be able to pump one 550 my longest roller about 575 with the new valkrie i always throw on golf ranges to get my distance its really accurate im now 18 years old and hope by the time im 21 i can throw 550

Who needs to make 30' putts when you've got 30 billion dollars?

If you throw discs on golf driving ranges, who retrieves them? The guy in the armored cart with all the golfers aiming their balls at him? Or you, with all the golfers trying to peg you?

Run boy run!!

Drive for show, upshot for dough. The upshot is the most important shot. Everybody should be able to make every 20 foot putt easily, but 40 foot putts will always be hard. The difference between them is only 20 feet, and that 20 foot difference is in the upshot.

People who win major tournaments don't have too many upshots. The upshot is the putt if you deuce every hole. Or you could say, the tee shot is the upshot if you want to deuce it.

yeah, you guys are right about the high of throwing long. as you know, i am a fine disc golf technician who can throw accurately to 400 feet, but i am lamenting the fact i don't make enough putts to compete with the high end pros.

AVERAGE DRIVE: 350 TO ABOUT 400
LONGEST DRIVE; 470

DRIVE W/ GAZELLE,EAGLES AND FIREBIRDS..
BEEN PLAYING ABOUT 2 YEARS(21) FROM NY

i drive like 900 feet on average!! no what [*****]

thats immpossible, longest drive ever is 693' 3",
your a [*****]!!!!

gazelles eagles and firedirds blow [*****], i use frisbie pie tins!!! and throw them a consistant 600 feet. Ronny Rules!!!!

Pretty amazing how Novice, other novice and pie tin all posted at 2 minute intervals don't ya think. Got a little multiple personality thing going there do ya?

Yes, and none of them were clever or funny. Guy must be all of 13, got his first computer and first set of long pants. Maybe soon he'll get the CD ROM version of Miscosoft Disc Golf so he can pretend to throw.

At the top of this thread is Erin Hemmings saying on Nov 7 2000 that he threw 480 once and 450 several times, after only playing disc golf for 6 months. I remember him posting that, and saying to myself, this guy must have a natural gift.

Well, from all accounts last week at Big D in the desert, Erin was impressing the heck out of everybody and coming close to the world record contenders.

Hey Erin, what's your longest throw now?

Hey, I remember this thread! Well Morgan its been two years now since I first threw a golf disc and my longest throw measures 749 feet. If you havn't checked out Big-D IV results yet, they are posted at www.dtworld.com/BigDIV.htm (http://www.dtworld.com/BigDIV.htm)

Congrats Erin, you are the first person who posted your distances on the message board without using "message board" distances. I believed you then, and I believe you now. Good luck hitting 800 feet!!

Wow.
Inspiring to see that.
I've been playing roughly 7 months now (played recreational ultimate some in college), and I can consistantly throw just under 400' with a z-reaper or a z-xs (hey, i like the z plastic), though i'm more coonsitant with the reaper. My form finda [*****]. Tried the 360 for the first time last night.... of 4 tosses, only one went over 300, and it was still under 400.
Longest was a lucky toss with the xs, about 450'. As fas as distances, there's an "open" in the middle of Lafreneire in NoLA that the locals have taped off several times, so we know the distance from the magnolia to the elm (about 405').
I'm looking forward to hitting some big-d; at 6 months, I can drive very consistantly, and long, but a 10' putt still kicks my [*****] 5 times out of 10.On days, off days - mostly off. I practice my putting alot now, with a Ching portable, but I still love to just let one fly.

Who knows, maybe I'll see y'all at big-d in a year or two. ROFL. One can dream...

average throw----360-375
Furthest throw-----550
measured on a football feild
been playing almost 2 years
discs i use for distance are valkryies jk in the head wind special in the tail normal in the normal heheh. special edition valkryies go the farthest for more othen than maybe an archangel, but there hard to control. A few people have told me that i threw an archangel around 600 once, and i think it was about that but there wasn't an accurate measuring system so i still count my 550 on the feild as the longest

Average throw-375-400
Furthest-475

I like KC Teebirds for straight 400' shots but if it is all open, the DX Valk will go big.

Ive been playing about 15months. I got some good tips from some local pros about 4 months ago and can now throw over 400 feet fairly consistantly (I like CE Valkyrie and Z-XS's 166-167gs). I can throw 350ft side arm too (that was more natural for me, I could do that a few months into the game, coming from a baseball background)(use CE Firebird for Side Arm 175g,s) I just gotta learn to throw it straight.

I typically drive 90-110 miles for a tournament, 14 times a year.

Oh, this is a "throwing techniques" thread. Never mind.

1308 miles......to Miami! /msgboard/images/clipart/proud.gif

In 21.5 hours. /msgboard/images/clipart/happy.gif

You shoulda just walked, Rob. 3600 was too far to drive for me. /msgboard/images/clipart/proud.gif

I'm still trying to understand what tournaments you guys play. I play AM, but I've got a few friends who are big arms in the ADV. and PRO divisions. They are generally in top 3-4 distance-wise at the tournament (they throw Roc/Aero/Aviar 375-400), but they are an anomaly. Most people, through ADV. at least, throw (max golf D.) about 350-375 with a big anhyser valk shot (and a tailwind). So how are you guys that have played a year or so chunking 400' consistently? And if you are, why aren't you playing tournaments?

Once I drove (hitched and shared driving) from Pasadena CA to NYC in 36 hours now thats gotta be some kind of record.

Average Drive : 125 - 130 feet
Max Drive : 185?
One of my friends said out drove hole #4 at Elver Park but then rolled back, when I got to the hole it was still 50 feet short. The hole is about 190 feet. I've been playing disc golf for the last 15 years but haven't improved my distance yet, any suggestions?

Use both arms

36 hours! That is almost hard to believe. My buddies and I did San Diego to Baltimore in 43 hours.

I've got a couple good stories from that trip. Like the guy in Pa that stopped at every tavern along the way to get refreshed.........Hey I lived through it.

Nicholas Key, I agree most adv player drive about 350-370 (and thats a generous estimate) I recently moved up from am to adv after outdriving and outplaying the am players quickly. I honestly don't think it's that hard to throw over 375-400 feet with good form (even for smaller player).I've seen 110lbs, 15 years olds throw 425ft. I have studied alot of pro's throwing and have developed a good power form. I need to get my control down though. Now that I play advanced I see alot of players who throw accurate but not far, and alot of player who throw far but not acurrate. I guess that's why they are not pro. I am learning that accurracy is much more important than power. Anyway like I mentioned before, by getting my form together I increased my driving distance by 100 feet in about 3 weeks. I just don't think it's that hard. Getting over drives to go 450 to 500ft. Yeah that's going to take a little work. But I don't really care what anybody else thinks,even if I could only throw 50 ft. I'm having a ton of fun playing.

Been playin' just over 2 years. I consistantly throw my Rocs 375-415 (give or take). I consistantly throw my Valks/Eagles 380-420 (give or take). My friends tell me that they have seen me throw much further than that on holes before, but I'm usually right around the 400 mark out at Rosedale's driving range. (or is it 300?) /msgboard/images/clipart/happy.gif

I know I can CRUSH with my 162g CE Valk, but I need quite a bit of room and the wind at my back. When I have the room I love throwing this 'Circus Disc' and watching it fly in a big 'S'. But there is just something F'N ******* about just RRRRRIIIIIPPPPPIIIIIINNNNNGGG a Roc 400'! It's just sweet watching a disc travel that slowly, that straight and that far. It's also fun throwing a putter 300-350 off the tee. That's what's fun about watching and playing with the Pro's, for me anyways.

Peace out!

Ford

Get yerself a CE Aero if you love watching S--L--O--W flying discs. If ya hyzer it a little and wind up extra on the spin, it'll straighten up and kick over to a floating anhyzer line that goes forever and takes twice that to get there.

Schhhweeeeeeet.... /msgboard/images/clipart/proud.gif

i love my ce aero. threw it 450 once. sure it was down hill and had a tail wind. pizzer though, only a 300 foot hole.

okay, this is for the Socal boys and girls. Who was able to get it to #9 or #16 at Huntington Beach Tourney the 3rd Round?? I was about 90 feet past #16 and hit the tree in front of #9 about 20 feet high. I am guessing 450 . Anyone have a good number for the distance??

Hold on now, that tree in front of #9 is way more than 90 feet past #16. Putting your disc way the heck over there is a heck of a yank, but nothing to brag about! /msgboard/images/clipart/happy.gif

That is FUNNY, Rhett!!!
I am glad that Joel is not playing SD, I am tired of getting my [*****] kicked by a 14 year old!!!

curry, you throw that dam n disc farther than that at worlds/msgboard/images/clipart/proud.gif.

how's it going curry?
are you going to be at the Z10 stop at houston?
what about the live oak stop on the 24?

avg. 400 plus?
longest ever in the history of ever with no wind, flat ground no tree's open like? 510ish
stoped throwing valkeryie's about 8 months ago, I don't know why. I have a disc that makes me think I can do anything with it and it has possibly held me back.

Posted by Jim Garnett on May 14:
"
I know nothing about course design, but I do know what kind of holes are challenging to me, usually long ones (I've never birdied anything over
400').

My suggestions for some good par 4's: How about a...400' hole where the last 150' is over water. Sure, the big arms can try to make it across, but the rest of us would have to lay up, and make a nice aproach.

For me, anything longer than 350 or so, I have a very hard time reaching.
"

May 14th of what year did I write that?

Very good. Do you have a guess?

I was just reading old threads and stumbled across that. Thought it was funny considering your recent debate with Nick.

<FONT SIZE="-2">More importantly, how long had you been playing then, and what has changed since then? As disc technology keeps adding distance, my body keeps subtracting distance. I think I throw the same distance today with Valks that I did 9 years ago with Vipers. Or at least 8 years ago with Cyclones.</FONT>

I've been playing since early '96.

I'm pretty sure I wrote that before '00, maybe as early as '98? I know I was still throwing X2s in '00, and probably maxing out around 420'. I could throw XLs further, but had very little control.

I don't think disc technology has changed my distance all that much, but maybe I'm wrong. I know I've thrown a Roc nearly 400' and an MRV over 400 (with perfect wind). For fun, I recently threw a putter (X-Challenger) on a 400' hole and came up about 50' short. So I'm throwing today's putters longer than I was throwing drivers 4 years ago.

One of these days I'll have to go see what I can do with a Cyclone, and compare it to today's drivers.

I think it was '97.

So if it's not disc technology, what's the difference? Yoga, martial arts, stretching, 'roids, grip, technique? [*****] you big arms are secretive.

Ha, well, I'd been playing for less than two years when I wrote that, not terribly surprising.

I honestly don't know why I can throw further than the average person. My driving distance went from a max of maybe 370 to around 420-450 in a very short period of time, and I don't know what I started doing differently. If I did, I'd sell it, 'cuz that would make me far more money than I win playing golf.

One thing was moving to Phoenix where every hole is a wide open 370' hyzer; playing regularly with Lance Plummer and even more-so, Steve Wisecup, probably helped a lot. Even if you don't get direct instruction, you do pick up little things by playing with better players.

I'm over 35 now, so I imagine I won't continue to add distance for much longer, so hopefully the rest of my game will come around before I start having back problems.

I got my distance by playing with Ray Johnson for the most part. He moved here from NorCal and was like 18 at the time. I just copied the stuff from his drive that I could and lo and behold I got more power. I know that I have transferred that knowledge indirectly to many people with my own refinements. I do think that disc technology has helped but a long thrower can probably use some of that old stuff nearly as effectively.

Jim, if you throw a Cyclone make sure it is with the old plastic, otherwise it won't be a fair test.

"Jim, if you throw a Cyclone make sure it is with the old plastic, otherwise it won't be a fair test."

Got any old plastic cyclones that aren't beat to he1l? I'll have to dig through my old stuff to find any at all, but they'll certainly be well worn in.

I'm sure modern discs do add some distance, but not 100'.

I've got some old Cyclones I think with aces. I try to keep my ace discs. They will stay where they are at though. We aren't doing distance at Jerry are we?

We probably won't have time this year, unless we do it early Sunday morning.

I'm rhbh.
Ave = 310-330'
Best = 390' (estimate, the hole was just slightly down hill and I only did it once)
Measured based on hole length (have thrown pin high on a 390' hole for best and can throw pin high on 330' holes on average)
Been playing 10 months
Longest disk is a 171 g Champion Valkyrie on average
Best drive with a beaten up Champ Valk, 165 g
Kurt Cantrell

ave air shot: 360 ft(backhand)
longest air shot approx 430 ft (157g whippet-sidearm)
measuring device? : careful estimation,level ground only
years playing:17
longest disc: 144g dx beast

RHBH thrower
Average distance: 350-400'
Longest airshot:600' (ask Randy Wimm)
Measured by hole #12 at Veteran's(Relatively flat). Distance from Teepad to hole=557' My airshot was at the tree beyond the basket. Disc used was a 176g cyclone.
Longest disc in the bag now is a toss up between the Z-Crush, and the Z-Wildcat.
Years playing: 8-ish

Average: 400 feet

Longest: 550 feet

Disc: Teebird

Average 330 pretty WABby
Longest 5280 feet
Grand Canyon (just kiddin on that, can't say I didn't think abuot it though.)

longest 450-500

longest disc Beast

ce

Well lets just put this new Message Board to the test.
I guess we'll make this what you can consistantly drive, not your personal best.
Please vote:

I'm fairly new to the game...maybe 4-5 months...less that 2 dozen rounds under my belt...

On average...I can get my drives into the 160-170 foot range.

My longest is about 205'

The main thing I need to work on is technique...my "approach" is basically a hop on my left foot and then a throw...I don't get a lot of power obviously with this technique...

My longest throw was with a 140g Cheetah...

Hope to learn some things from the discussion around here :)

Average: 440-460'
Longest in distance comp: 555'
Disc: Beast!!

�Como se dice "testosterone"?

;)

I would really love to believe most of these responses....or maybe I just can't throw that far. 330 is about the farthest in any condition. with any disc, 5 year player. I can putt, though.

Well, since it's such a crummy day here in S. Ohio...I just took about 45 minutes and turned my back yard into a driving range...

I'm working more on my arm technique right now...focusing mainly on my wrist snap. I'm almost hearing some actual snap on a few shots :D I'm completely hopeless with any kind of runup beyond 1 step...so I should be working there, but I'd rather not tear up my knees worse than they already are :(

Anywho, I can proudly say that I've gotten probably another 15' worth of distance, and my accuracy is much improved as well. Go figure.

So now my official longest throw is 220' with a 171g XS, I'm averaging 175-190' with that disc now. Woohoo!

RHBH
Average Decent Drive: About 225 ft
Longest Drive: About 300 ft. (171-gm Z-XS)
Favorite Distance Driver: 121-gm Speed Demon

Average on a flat surface? 330' :cool:
I practice on a soccer field and usually land about five feet inside, sometimes 5 feet past the field boundary (lenghtwise for those in doubt of DiscDr's list of lengthy talents)

342 feet - on demand with Millenium Exp1 super fast, super fade, 175g - it's a beauty, eh :D
how do I know? I can park #11 at dalaiwood (even though it IS a BIT downhill, 342 is 342. and to park that one, you gotta throw UPHILL, go around some trees and then it goes downhill, so flight path is actually LONGER than 342 but I am quite happy with 342 cuz 342 is 342 even if it is actually more than 342) Did I mention that 11 at Dalaiwood is 342 feet and I park that so easily?

Longest: 500 feet (JLS - lost a long time ago) got lucky into a 20 mph headwind! /msgboard/images/graemlins/ooo.gif
how do I know? I threw from the dam dam at Charleton, MA. I don't need proof, my doubles partner was grinning his face off (his JLS went in the drink). Of course, the dam dam is ONLY about 90 feet above the water and the target is quite close to water level.

Longest on a flat surface - a bit over 405' with my KC Pro Teebird 175g :eek:
how do I know - the hole was marked at 405' and I went a bit past it. If the marking was off, oh well.

Been throwing about six years, playing for almost three (there IS a difference)

BTW - For us OLD guys with no knees, it is NOT necessary to run up to throw. I rarely 'run up' and I throw almost 350' on a good day, more on a lucky day. email me if you want more info. ;)

Longest disc -
Gotta be my KC Pro TeeBird, 175g /msgboard/images/graemlins/smirk.gif
- when I get enough snap on a flat release to force it to break right (with a 175g disc, that is a lot of spin boys) and then hyzer back at the end of the flight, oh it is sooooo pretty! OH OH, CHECK THIS - I DEUCED #4 at Lakewood in Seattle (map: http://www.lynchclan.com/leftcoast/lw_map.html). My KC Pro TeeBird 175g broke right, nailed the gap and was about 40 feet out ... NoAceYet was there and he is STILL ticked at me! hahahaha (fyi and disclaimer, the last 100' or so is downhill, so when you clear 300' and hit the gap between the trees with the right angle, you get your duece IF you can putt)

I am not a real DiscDr, I just act like I throw like one :p

All right I'll bite:

RHBH Average Drive: 280 - 300 ft.
Forehand Average Drive: 120 - 150 ft. (not an exaggeration) :(
Longest flat surface drive: ~ 360 ft.

While these distances are pretty average, they're not bad for an older, little guy with bad technique.

Furthest disc: X Predator

Been playing (badly) for about 3 years

That's the furthest I have driven to play.

Okay if you insist, on an average day and average good throw:

backhand 350 feet down from 400 when I was young 2 years ago

sidearm 290 feet not affected by age yet /msgboard/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

My longest throw ever on flat level ground was 7 or 800 feet.

Yes it's true, it went somewhere between 7 and 800 feet.

Let me clarify, I mean somewhere between 7 feet and 800 feet.

hey disc dr. the long one with the opening in the trees(I've two'd that one too) but the hole thats undeucable is hole #12 @ lakewood, I dont think there are many 3's on that hole

i dont know the distance but i go out to a football field to practice my drives about 3 times a week. i can stand under one field goal and put 4 of 10 through the other uprights. so could be 350-400 ft. give or take. i do have 2 aces that are over 300 one down hill and one down a tight alley. both with the new viking. :D

I agree, but I just barely missed a 60 foot putt for par last time i was there!
Drive went way left and skipped. Upshot was clean, missed the long one!

I had finally perfectly tuned a beast that I was really starting to chunk. I ripped my longest drive ever..approx 350 still cruising and 15 fee in the air when it hit a tree trunk and bounced sideways approx 70 feet into the depths of the pond ... lost my fave disc and my potentially longest drive

Well...I have been playing now for about a year. I measure my distance by throwing on a rugby field that is down the street from my house. On average I would say I throw 340-360. My longest drive on flat ground is around 450. It was with a first run JK Valk(166g). Thrown with some nasty hyzer on it so I could s-curve it so it wouldn't turn into an instant roller.

Forget the footwork for awhile as it is probably doing you more harm than good. Juliana Korver (undisputed women's world champion) practiced throwing for two years while standing still. Work on the techniques of rotating your hips and shoulders and snapping the disc with an elbow chop.
Check out 'distance secrets' in this forum.

ok. Just like to go back to the lakewood thing.. I have had "putts" on 12, and I will one day get a two there hopefully while seeing the basket. The hard one there is 17 to 15...roller hole, just havent gotten the deep deep water spot. Giving a late shot out to the chef for a great 3 on that, wish I was playing it at that time to take alls the money.
....umm Teebirds fly the best for me, T or TL just bet em up. proto valk &amp; pred are very close and or better. 597 best- wont be beating it till mr nino is back and I can do a 360 bomb again. . As of late it seems 500-520 is avrg when I get to throw it without to much wind. :confused: still so very confused. wind blows!

UM go slower and take advantage of this and REACH further back. Good stuff! Tippy toes actaully works here. Not metion it works well with cocking/hinging practice as well. Thats about it. IM THE MAN :p stupid leftys

Hi. If any of you are from the Central Maine area, I'd love to see how you throw. I'd love to get a technic that would allow me to throw these distances.

Dragon or Enman fields. Call if you're in the area 800.636.0457

Central Maine?

I can't throw that far. I can throw as far as Vermont, maybe New Hampshire, but I can't reach Central Maine.

Doctor Bob, ask Doctor Doug (Ertman), he lives in central Maine and can throw really really far.

I probably average about 280' on my drives.
My longest measured was 320', measured with a roller walker throwing a Ching stamped Valkyrie.
Been playing seriously for about 2 years and was not blessed with great snap, just recently went to a power grip which will certainly increase my avg and longest throw.
I play mostly tight wooded courses here in NC so accuracy is more important. Anywho.....I am J$ #21433

just recently went to a power grip which will certainly increase my avg and longest throw.



Hate to burst your bubble, but I just switched from a power grip to a fan/stacked grip, and my throws are traveling slower and going farther. I also find it a lot more accurate. The longest disc I've thrown like that is an X2 though, so I'm not sure if the same thing will be true with my Crush, Beast, etc.

I think the increased wrist mobility of the non-power grips is what's helping me get more snap.

Dude, it doesn't matter what grip you have. Just as long as:

1. All 4 fingers are under the disc.
2. It works for you.

I learned that from Stokely.

Dude, it doesn't matter what grip you have. Just as long as:

1. All 4 fingers are under the disc.
2. It works for you.

I learned that from Stokely.



The thing is:

1. I have 5 fingers.
2. That seems to be the biggest factor. My only point was that the power grip doesn't guarantee more power. I think my problem was that the power grip was hindering other aspects of my throw. So while grip may not matter too much, it matters if you try to use a grip that interferes with parts of the throw that matter more. And I guess the grip that doesn't do that would be the one that works for you. But if one grip works for you and the others don't, then it does matter what grip you use . . .

HELP, I'M THINKING MYSELF IN CIRCLES!!!

You have 4 fingers and 1 thumb. The thumb is on top an the fingers are on bottom.

A grip does not give you power. Like I said, use what works for you. I have seem guys throw 550' using the power grip and other guys do the same with a fan or pinch or some other variation.

To those guys who throw Innova AND Discraft, which is longer for you? More Importantly, to those in colder climes, do you find (as I do) that practicing in Harsher conditions, (ie Winter) makes you throw longer, not during the winter, but in the spring when you really get to stretch them out?
Does cold actually shorten flights?

Well, i cant compare and tell you about all the discs but I can compare for you my z-xl and 9x KC Pro Teebird (both broken in pretty well and both 171 g.). I use both of these for straight shots which max out for me around 300-320. Both I use with a hyzer release. As far as predictability (resistance to early turn) they are about equal with my z-xl a little easier to turn but it will turn back straight at the end (my new z-xl wil hyser back left at the end but is still 20 feet shorter than both these discs, 175 g.). For me the Teebird seems to fly a bit further (10 to 15 feet) but that may be because it is the more domed of the two. A QJLS or the CE-JLS that I have are also similar to the z-xls and 9x teebirds. The 11x kc pro Teebirds aren't similar to the z-xl at all. They act more like an xs to me (more overstable, these are my open shot s traveling distance discs).

Yes, temperature has a huge impact on both disc distance and flight characteristics. I have my longest throws in summer evenings after a hot day (80-90F). When the ground is hotter than the air temp you get thermals that keep the disc in the air longer.
I find that my throws in Feb.(temp 35F) tend to be 10-15% shorter than my throws in July(temp 80F). Also I believe discs tend to be more stable in colder temps so I choose slightly less stable discs in the winter months.
Come on spring!!!!

Kid Roc: Unless you use the Bonapane grip.
Thumb and forefinger on top, 3 fingers under.

boru,
My original grip put my index finger on the rim of the disc, which was slowing my snap on release. A 3-finger grip (power, fist, whatever) has increased my length due to more snap off the release. No bubble burst here.

Glad to hear it. I didn't realize you had your index finger on the rim before.

I keep the same grip (fan) for all my shots. I can consistently throw over 400', with my longest throws being over the 500' mark. I have tried other grips, mainly the three finger, and I can definitely throw farther, but not nearly as accurate. You should keep to the grip that feels better to you in tournaments, at least until you have had time to work on others.

walt

Same for me Walt, except subtract 150 ft. from each number!

Fan grip? I didn't know that. You mean an open fan grip? Even when you go for D? Now I really feel like a wuss.

im a big fan of the 2 finger grip, i seem to get more snap that way.

Does cold actually shorten flights?


In theory. Cold=dense=more drag on disc.

Does cold actually shorten flights?


In theory. Cold=dense=more drag on disc.



Cold=dense, I believe is only applicable to more dense matter ( for example - water). In the cold weather the air isn't as thick and the disc doesn't have as much to "ride" on. Example, on humid or warm days my discs float & glide more.

actually as I remember it from science class cold air is 'thicker' than hot air - that is the molecules are closer together making it more dense and more difficult to propel a mass through. I have noticed that discs tend to fly further in warm weather and also lower humidity... but then again I could be trippin' :p

Cold air is definitely denser (so are cold discs) and will slow a disc down, as will thick, humid air.
Hot, dry weather is also more likely to produce updrafts which can add lift.

For some reason I can't throw as far when it's raining outside.

That'd be humid air. ;)

EVERYBODY:
Just a general question for all.
I've been practicing distance pretty much every day for an hour or longer since Sept. 1, with 3 weeks off over Xmas (went to New York, had no chance to throw).
My longest throws are about 250-270 feet.
Is this normal for someone who has only been throwing for about 4 months? Will I ever break 300,' or am I just a weenie arm forever? :confused:
I guess the question is how long did it take everyone to get past 300' drives, and is there any hope for me?
:p

There's always hope!!
Learning to relax right up until the last micro-instant will take you further...smoothness!

I broke 300' more consistently once I quit running up and slowed it all down...but that's just me! :cool:

I also find that i throw farther when i slow down and take a shorter run up. I think i throw my best when i take a 4 or three step run up. Though if and when i do take more of a run up say 5 to 6 steps it is still slow and controlled not fast and wild. Keys to Distance or Balance Snap and Form. Distance can be taught and learned. Dont worry you will break 300' unless you are really a noodle arm. It took me forever to start throwing as far as i do. It kind of all the sudden just clicked and i went from throwing 300 to 350 with my drivers to throwing my BUZZZ and Wasps that far and my Drivers 400 to 450. So just watch some of the big arms at your course throw and watch what they do and then modify it so it will work for you. And keep your Shoulder UP :D

Hi,

I, too just started playing (picked up the sport in November) and also have had thoughts of "when will I throw 300+?" My average drive right now is about 250 or so. I get out to practice about 3 times a week during the winter. Every once in a while (like 1 out of 25 drives) I can get about 300', but not consistently. And the funny thing is, those longest ones are the most effortless, where I stand there and wonder how the thing went that far. It's all about being smooth and getting lots of snap. I think I try to muscle my drives too much and things go awry. Oh well, I'll keep practicing. :)

Luke,
300+ will come in the summertime. It is too cold to throw that far in New Jersey right now. I can consistently throw 300 feet, occassionally 320 - 340 with the right wind.

However, I think my inflated "Message Board" distance would be close to 400 feet - if you know what I mean.

:D


Anyway, are you up for a quick round on Saturday afternoon @ Rutgers....around 1:00??? We'll talk more distance then.

:p

Are you Trying to say that im Inflating my distance for message board showing off??? Because if you are come down to michigan in the summertime oh wait or even in the wintertime and id love to play a round with you and give you a demonstration of my Distance. :D

Blarg:

Will you never throw over 300? That might depend a lot on your age. My progress went well until I got to the point where you are. My good drives are 250-270 feet, with very occasionally something around 300. I had thought I would be able to get over 300 consistently based on my initial progress, but I have been on this plateau for a long time. The sad fact is, though, I am 54, and I don't expect to throw any farther. Maybe a little farther, maybe a little more consistently, but basically I think I will have no real progress.

Younger people, though, have much more opportunity to throw farther as they get work on their technique. Oh, to be young again! :-)

I started playing last march and come from an Ultimate background. Because of my Ultiamte background i had a very fan-like drive that didn't get me great distance (about 275'). This fall i really spent some time working on my technique. I focused on turning my back and shoulders more towards the basket and pulling through a line. It took a while to get used to the feeling but now i'm consistently getting 350'+, with my longest throw being ~420', with a little help from the wind. My main driver is an 11X Teebird 169g.

Blarg, if you are physically normal, you have the capability to throw over 400 ft. Mainly, it is just technique. The Jarvis twins can throw 500 off a tee and they are puny. Their technique however, is huge. Hang in there until you can feel the disc explode from your grip.

Dave et al:
Thanks to all for the encouragement! Nehringk was the only
discouraging word.
It may well be that I've reached a plateau, as I am 58, but I refuse to believe it! I also think if I start working out it will help, as prior to Sept. 1 I hadn't really done anything athletic in many many years. Perhaps if I can build up my upper body strength I can get more snap.
I've gained about 30 feet in the last 2 weeks alone (at the price of some accuracy), and that's encouraging. Also, all my favorite discs are starting to turn over (cheetahs, valkyries) and I'm finally getting some distance out of my more overstable discs (beast, orc,).
I do feel the disc 'rip' out of my hand pretty often, but I've never heard the 'roaring' sound the disc is supposed to make (yet).
Dave, do you think an old geezer like me can actually get to
400'???!!!
I'd be happy to get to a consistent 300, but 400 would be off the scale! :D
:eek:

nehringk:
I think you can learn to throw farther if you become very fit (which I ain't). Unless of course, you already are very fit.
I know for a fact that I could be quite a bit stronger than I am at the moment, as I haven't worked out or thrown ANYTHING in at least ten years until the past 4 months and I can throw 220 with very little effort and 250-270 if I kill myself.
Plus, I really believe I can learn to throw farther, so I have to believe you can too! :)

Again, thanks to all who've responded!

Throwing for distance in a combo of alot of different things. Most importantly i think its about form. Let me tell you i have seen Everyone from Overweight to skinny and young to old and new to expierienced throw the disc a long way. They all usually have one thing in common. A good and balanced run up and a WHOLE LOT OF SNAP right at the end of the throw. So much in fact that even if they wanted to stop the disc from coming out of their hand they couldnt. Its also about finding the right disc to throw for distance for you. Some like DX beasts which by the way are great for BIG D. Others are DX Valks X and Z Talons XS Xclones. You can throw just about anything far. Just depends on what works for you. When your out playin a casual round ask everyone in your group if you can try their long distance driver. Find the one you like best and Stick with that. When you find the right disc for your Power/Spin/Snap that in itself will add distance. But watch the big arms at your home course throw and try to emulate them. Thats how i learnt to throw DEEP.

Everyone has the ability to throw far if their body is in normal working order :D

Blarg:

I did not mean to be discouraging. I simply meant that if you were young, I would rate your chances of siginificantly improving your distance more favorably.

I know that one thing I certainly need to do is to lose weight, which would help my form, which would give me the chance of increasing my distance. (However, at my age, losing weight is also hard...)

Anyway, keep working at it. Form seems to be much more important than strength, at least from what I have observed. I have come to the point of trying to work on my approach shots and putting, and not worrying that much about my driving distance. On most holes, the real issue is how close I can stick my approach to the basket by concentration and control -- that seems to be far more important than the actual distance of the approach shot. From another perspective, adding 50 feet to my drive would be nice, but on many holes, reducing an approach shot from 125 to 75 feet does not make that huge a difference (which is what the 50 feet would do). Missing trees and judging the effect of wind, though, makes a huge difference.

But yes, I am a sucker for new drivers, just like most folks on this board. Human nature, I guess.

Good luck in your progress!

Karl Nehring

nehringk:

Well, a dose of reality never hurts (or is that always hurts? :D).
I think the truth for both of us is we could be more fit. I know I could be. Disc golf has inspired me to go to the gym and to generally try to exercise more. More fit = better performance.
You make some excellent points about the distance only making your upshot a bit shorter. I guess my fantasy is to make that upshot under 10 feet!
Plus, I'm addicted to throwing those beautiful out-flexing loooong S-curves that feel so good.
It certainly would be easier 30 years ago...or even 10! :eek:

I gotta work on putting.

Really good posts guys. Thank you. I understand what Karl was saying. I agree up to a point. It can be much more difficult as you get older with less time to devote, less flex, less spring, harder to heal etc. Just that it is not impossible. Alkaseltzer helps a lot. :) Beer ain't bad either. I am 54 and can throw over 400 so you can too. I expect to be able to throw over 400 for many years, barring injuries, which is a real concern. Absolutely, being in shape helps not only with quickness, but with the avoidence of injury too. Stretching is essential rather than strength. Never give up hope. :) The process is just as rewarding as the goal. Stay in the game.

People are quick to say that distance doesn't mean anything, that it's all about control, which may be true, to a point. But I haven't seen anyone win an open division (and granted, my experience is quite limited) who couldn't drive well. It's true that if you can throw 2 accurate 200' shots, you'll par a 400' hole. Birdies are where long drives seem to matter though. The best players I've seen are able to set themselves up for birdies on nearly every hole because they can throw long, with accuracy.

So the pursuit of distance seems very worthwhile to me, and I'd like to think it's something we can all achieve.

As long as you can throw 375' you can hang with the pros. I believe Klimo said that in something that I read of his.

I remember reading that KC statement (or very close to it) as well... but I don't think that was the end of it. I seem to remember there being an emphasis on having a well perfected short game to go with that 375' drive.

:)

Thanks again, Dave and everybody else for the good advice and inspiration.
Since I've re-discovered disc golf (about 4 months ago), I've lost 15 lbs and have increased my overall stamina by quite a bit. [Note: I also switched to (blechh) diet sodas or Gatorade instead of my favorite Dr. Pepper].
During my first ever round at La Mirada back in September (90+degrees), I had to quit after 12 holes from exhaustion. I now can play 36+ holes and still feel like playing more. I'm also less depressed, sleep better and even noticed an increased sex drive on the occaisions when I stay out all day. ;)
Re-discovering this sport has changed my life!
The only down side is I've pulled a bunch of muscles recently
and I really should lay off for a bit. Tricep, lats, trapezius, groin and whatever the muscle over my right scapula is.
I figure it's nature's way of telling me to learn to throw lefty backhand!
/msgboard/images/graemlins/ooo.gif

Time for ibuprofin.

Boru:
I would tend to agree with you. I've seen Bobby Musick shoot 14 under for 18 holes on more than one occaision and he did it by pretty much parking lots of tee shots.
He's also, of course, a terrific putter and finds chains on many shots over 30 feet.
I've played a round of 9 holes at even par, but without accurate long distance, those deuces are few and far between (had about 6 so far).
I should have quite a few more deuces under my belt, but I've missed more ten foot putts than I care to mention. :mad:

P.S.
What the heck happened to the 'distance secrets' thread?
It seems to have disappeared!!! :eek:

Blarg, the distance secrets thread is still there, it just hasn't had a recent post, so it was rotated to the second page. FYI Bobby Musick is one of my proteges and works for me at Innova. He's a great kid.

Blarg - My best round (18 holes) in a tournament was even: 2 birdies, 2 bogeys. Both of those birdies were holes I parked. One got me the CTP for the round. I hit a couple birdies in the other rounds that weekend, but I think I threw away more than I made. I, too, miss more easy putts than is ideal. The thing is, if you miss an easy putt, you're usually left with another easy putt for par. I sometimes get into what feels like a great groove with longer birdies. I'll nail a couple from 80-150' and start feeling superhuman. But then I'll go for every shot like that, and inevitably miss most of them. Even if you're only off by a couple inches on a shot like that, you're often left with a 30' comeback putt. So your birdie attempt becomes a bogey, or worse. Driving with pretty good accuracy seems to be a lot easier than being perfect on approach shots. So if you're looking for the safest birdie formula, long drive/short putt has got to be a better bet than two accurate midrange shots.

When I first started playing, it usually seemed like the number of 2s on my card would be equal to the number of 5s (we play all par 3s here). So I started calling the double bogeys that resulted from botched birdie attempts "upside-down 2s."

Boru:
You're dead right about the approach shots. I'm always trying to hit that 80 foot deuce (often with a driver) and when I miss the chains (almost always), it can be a big miss. :eek:
The one par round I shot, I just concentrated on getting my second shot as close to the pole as possible (I think I used a Roc for upshots), often slightly undershooting deliberately and letting the disc skid under the basket. I parred every hole, though admittedly not the toughest holes in the world (front 9 at La Mirada).
I felt good about the score, which was a breakthrough for me,
but I must admit it was a tiny bit dull when compared to just plain 'going for it' on every throw.
Maybe when I can mix a few deuces in there, it'll be more exciting! :D

Dave:
I should have known! He's always decked out in Innova gear and he plays a monster game!
He pretty much dominates all the club mini-tourneys at La Mirada.

Do you ever play down there?

P.S.
/msgboard/images/graemlins/ooo.gifSecond page? Didn't know there was one! :o

I parred every hole, though admittedly not the toughest holes in the world (front 9 at La Mirada).
I felt good about the score, which was a breakthrough for me,
but I must admit it was a tiny bit dull when compared to just plain 'going for it' on every throw.



Really? I love stringing together a whole bunch of pars, especially in a tournament! Parring a few consecutive holes is usually the catalyst that gets me in my zone. In that superfocused state, I play my best golf and have the most fun. I'll take that over hitting a couple lucky birdies any day.

Something else I've noticed is that during my best rounds, I've usually gotten off to a shaky start, settled into a groove, and then birdied a couple towards the end to cancel out early bogeys. Statistically, I'm a lot better when I'm +2 after two holes than -2!

Boru:
I can understand how 'par golf' could be exciting in a tournament. I'm still some sort of beginner and I don't feel
as though I'm good enough to compete at the moment and hence, I've never played a tournament.
I also realize that par golf is nowhere near good enough for tournament play, judging from what I've seen the ranked players do.
I guess I meant that playing the old 'Roc up the middle' tactic requires a more restrictive mind set than just wailing the disc at the basket on every shot (can a disc be wailed? :confused:).
Birdies are exciting. Par is.. well... par.

This is what I tell all newbies: Everybody started, and (probably) everybody suckt at first...though it would be a real treat to have seen Ken and Barry's (and other notables) first attempts!!

Wait until you see a 750' par 3. We had one of those at the Hawaii State Championships, and as far as I know, everyone who parred it was elated.

You're probably right, in that shooting par isn't going to win the Open, or even Am1, division at many big tournaments. Depends a lot on the course and the field, I guess.

You'll get your best scores when you play within your comfort zone, which, I'm sure, is what the top players are doing when they're shooting -18 for 18 holes, or something else obscene. It's not that these guys/gals are taking lots of risks. They just have much larger comfort zones than we do, which allows them to attempt shots that look crazy to us. The advantage of playing within your comfort zone goes beyond just taking higher percentage shots. When you're taking a shot you're reasonably sure you'll hit, you're confident, which improves your chances of success. A generous cycle, you might say. So the way to get better, ultimately, is to expand your comfort zone.

That involves taking risks, pushing your limits, and experimenting. I do a lot of it during casual rounds, and it has helped me develop as a player.

In tournaments, I'm all about what feels good. I pick the disc and shot that I have the highest chance of making, period. When I rack up a string of pars this way, I start to feel more confident, sometimes almost unshakeable, and that's when the birdies happen. The excitement isn't so much "Wow! I'm shooting par! This is incredible!" It's a calm and focus that come over me, a detachment from everything but the game. I can feel that it's the zone I need to be in to play my best. So as I work on my skills, I'm also trying to get better at channeling that zone, so that it comes when I want it to, rather than on its own.

As one fairly new player (less than a year) to another, I'd strongly suggest you check out some tournaments. Find something low-key and close to home, like a monthly, and compete in AM2. It's a great way to meet people, improve your game, and just have a lot of fun. If you compete in a division that matches your skills, and go with the goal of having a good time, you'll take home a prize sooner than you expect.

Man, that was a freakin' thesis! And I already have an update.

Appendix A: My friend claims he plays better when he takes risks. He thinks it forces him to perform at a higher level, and that the rewards more than cancel out the mistakes.

My fantasy is to become a touring pro when I'm sixty. That way, there will probably be only about 5 players in my division, and I can rack up a string of '5th Places.' ;)

What is the name of the over 60 division? 'Grand Masters?'
'Arch Geezers?' 'Old Dorks With Orcs?' 'Arthritic Flingers?'
'Wizard Lizards?' 'Stroke Folk?' 'Bypass Flyers?' 'Unfinished Rounders?' ...I could go on forever... :)

P.S.
I would like to suggest 'Avatars' for the over 60 group as opposed to 'Senior Grandmasters.' The worst thing you can call an old person is 'old,' and 'Senior Grandmasters' is the only adult division title that indicates age. Just imagine how good one would feel if the 'Masters' division were called 'Middle-Aged Masters.'

That'd be a pretty cool way to retire. Travel around the country in an RV (lots of old people do that anyway), play disc golf, win a few bucks here and there. Assuming a fairly normal career path, I still have 40 or so years left to plan it . . .

Blarg, sorry I didn't notice your post until this morning. Yes I do play at La Mirada on some weekends. That's where Bobby and I got together when he was 14. He was already a pretty good driver and would play with me every time I came to the park. La Mirada is my home course. Since 1977

Davei:
It's pretty much my home course, too. Unfortunately, the drive there is a *****, especially trying to get home in rush hour. I live up in Hollywood about 26 miles away.
I try to get there 2-3 times a week, but have backed off a bit due to my myriad of minor injuries.
I've just realized I've been trying to overpower my discs with my upper arm and thereby pulled a few muscles.
:(

P.S.
It'd be great to see you throw, so I'll keep an eye out for you
down in La Mirada. I'm easy to spot, as I'm usually the oldest guy there (not counting Dago). :D

Blarg, Dago knows me. You can ask him. I would only be there on weekends and usually a Saturday. Your drive is a lot shorter than mine. I'm in San Bernardino County...Rancho Cucamonga. :p

375' to 400' forehand
300' to 325' backhand (with very little accuracy)

Davei:
Whoops! I guess I shouldn't complain about my little drive! :o

It's 26 miles and takes 2.5 hours if I leave La Mirada at sundown (winter sundown). Average speed on the way home = just under 10 mph.
I usually hang out and throw with a few lit up discs, then go to the local mall for coffee or sometimes dinner. :)
After all that, it's only a 40 minute drive home. :D

Gettin' to know the town a bit. Seems pretty nice.

I was worried that I'd gone off-topic in my last post here. Then I looked at the category.
Right on target!
:D

I live on Long Island, NY... there are no courses within approx 2 hours.

Distance: 79.4 miles Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour 54 mins

It stinks having to travel so much to play. Maybe i need to move closer to a course.

I've been toying with the idea of moving to Long Beach or La Mirada for the same reasons.
It would mean I'd almost NEVER see my closest (20 years) friends.
:(
But I could play every day!
:D
But I'd never see my friends...
:(
But I could--aaah nuts!
:p :confused:

Avg. drive, mid range disc 350 consistant, and on target
Avg. "crush" sharp edge disc, 420 less consistant off target 20+ feet
Distance 450+ no telling were it goes, other than in front of me.
Have been playing for 13 yrs. I am 30 yrs old.

avg drive for me is about 375'
longest drive for me is about 550-562 '
measured by a hole we have at home that is 570' and I was about 10-20ft short of the basket
I have been playing for about 3 years now and have 50 career aces

RHBH
175 Beast or Starfire, 170 CE Firebird

Longest drive is around 400 slightly downhill local hole, was about 30 short of the pin.
Average drive? Average distance when going for distance- 340ish
Been playing disc golf for almost a year.
Pinch grip on distance/darts
Power grip on approachs/control shots
I NEVER run up, i'll use two or three steps, slow, long reach back and an explosion of power with snap upon release.

go go pitching coaches from little league

"I have been playing for about 3 years now and have 50 career aces"
:oThat is sick :o

avg drive for me is about 375'
longest drive for me is about 550-562 '
measured by a hole we have at home that is 570' and I was about 10-20ft short of the basket



So did you just tee off like you always do, and have your drive go 200 feet farther than you expected?

avg drive for me is about 375'
longest drive for me is about 550-562 '
measured by a hole we have at home that is 570' and I was about 10-20ft short of the basket



So did you just tee off like you always do, and have your drive go 200 feet farther than you expected?



Sounds like some wind involved. lol

I live just outside of Boston--I'd estimate my foursome averages 200 miles of driving distance a week. :D

My average golf disc distance is 5 feet short of the pond's edge or 6 inches OB. /msgboard/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

I dunno, sometimes you just really get ahold of one and it goes much farther that you expected. For me, that usually happens when I'm thinking, "There's no way I could possibly hit that person, car, pack of rottweilers, etc., way down there . . ."

Grip locks always go really far, but also way right so it doesn't help.

Do this: Aim 80' left of the bucket, then try to grip lock really bad. See what happpens. lol :D:D:D

"I have been playing for about 3 years now and have 50 career aces"
:oThat is sick :o



Don't be so quick to believe everything you here. He is probably one of those people who empties his bag on every hole and when one goes in, he counts it as an "ace". Or maybe I just am too skeptical of a person. Or otherwise the guy must go for ace runs all the time and get really lucky. How about you guys pick one. :D

"I have been playing for about 3 years now and have 50 career aces"
:oThat is sick :o



Don't be so quick to believe everything you here. He is probably one of those people who empties his bag on every hole and when one goes in, he counts it as an "ace". Or maybe I just am too skeptical of a person. Or otherwise the guy must go for ace runs all the time and get really lucky. How about you guys pick one. :D



Well, I know Kyle. He wouldn't lie about his score or anything but that group does throw about 50 drives on every hole! They are funny. :)

Grip locks always go really far, but also way right so it doesn't help.

Do this: Aim 80' left of the bucket, then try to grip lock really bad. See what happpens. lol :D:D:D



Could you describe what a grip lock is? I've never heard that term :confused:

Could you describe what a grip lock is? I've never heard that term :confused:



It's literally what it sounds like: your 'grip' gets 'locked' on the disc. You then proceed to release the disc at a 45 degree (or worse) angle to one side. On open holes it can result in incredible distance, but alas, away from the intended target. Also known as a "monkey paw." You'll usually also achieve many guffaws from those in your group.

The disc stays in your hand a lot longer than you planned. Your shot goes way to the right.

Don't forget southpaws who can griplock to the left!

yeah wind was involved a little bit small tail wind just threw normal and that is the distance I got. I can get 470 or 480 consecutive 500's or more come when I get a good BOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMM you know what I am saying Danny! The aces I have counted a lot of them are in a round only some are from practice when I am tuning in a hole. but one thing that you have to understand is that the course I play the longest hole is 570 or so hole # 15 and that is from the pro tee. they avg. about 300 ft. so an ace out there is not hard you can ask Kid Roc. I have several from Tulsa, OK , temp courses on Chings ect and things like that! The Orc is the disc that gets me all the D I need. Hole number 4 Z- boaz 700 and something feet down hill the orc or Titan as Kid roc calls it flew within 250 feet of the basket so I can boom when I want to!!

When you guys are throwing 500+ are you just ripping overstable discs anhyzer or are throwing flat/slight hyzer release and letting the disc do the work.

j/w, i've been trying to get more D on my drives and right now don't see how it's possible to make 100ft of improvment without growing more or lifting weights.

When you guys are throwing 500+ are you just ripping overstable discs anhyzer or are throwing flat/slight hyzer release and letting the disc do the work.

j/w, i've been trying to get more D on my drives and right now don't see how it's possible to make 100ft of improvment without growing more or lifting weights.



Exactly.. :cool:/msgboard/images/graemlins/smirk.gif :DKnowledge of yourself and the disc's your throwing takes practice, patience and determination. It also helps to be physically fit to handle throwing all day. The key is not to give up.
Practice my friend. Watch some good players. Learn from them when possible. There are alot of talented players.
Never stop learning and learn everything you can.
Through your own development , you will see what is right for you. I honestly can't say what's best for you.
Practice and learn the proper technique's is one of the best ways to start.
Hope this helps some. It helped me.
Thanks ,
Donny Olow
# 2656

throwing big "D" really has nothing to do with having big muscles or lifting weights it is all about the arm speed and the pop of the wrist. I am about 5'11" not very big and I throw really far. When Rip 500+ I am throwing usually an orc flat with a little bit of hyzer that is with small to no wind and the disc does the work for me! With a lot of wind I either throw my orc with a lot of hyzer and let the wind flatten it out or just throw a overstable firebird to fight the wind. I suggest just practing throwing in a field that is where I got my practice. when I started I could not reach a 300' hole now I have to back off or I am past it. once you master it your golden you will never lose it. just keep practicing and you will get it

throwing big "D" really has nothing to do with having big muscles or lifting weights it is all about the arm speed and the pop of the wrist. I am about 5'11" not very big and I throw really far. When Rip 500+ I am throwing usually an orc flat with a little bit of hyzer that is with small to no wind and the disc does the work for me! With a lot of wind I either throw my orc with a lot of hyzer and let the wind flatten it out or just throw a overstable firebird to fight the wind. I suggest just practing throwing in a field that is where I got my practice. when I started I could not reach a 300' hole now I have to back off or I am past it. once you master it your golden you will never lose it. just keep practicing and you will get it


Cool............like hearing the Orc is flying good for distance !!!
Mine go a mile as well. :D

I have been playing disc golf for a little under a year..

I'm 17, 5'11 and about 165. I really doubt I can change anything in my throw that will result in 100ft+ more distance. I think my throwing technique is extremely developed. Alex Bingman (if any of you know him, hes one of the top guns around here) told me I have a very "fluid" motion. It's rare not to not hear a snap from any of my drives.

I'm happy with 350, but it's not enough (as with everything in disc golf) There MUST be some kind of isometric exercise I can do which would help in distance, or something! Anything?!

BTW- I bought a new roc today and tried matching my drives distance wise. I was very surprised when they started to fly as far and more consistant then my drives. Just needed to give them enough time to work.

When you guys are throwing 500+ are you just ripping overstable discs anhyzer or are throwing flat/slight hyzer release and letting the disc do the work.



You have to figure out what works for YOU!!!!

You may be able to get more D out of the over stable anhyzer fly shot. Or maybe you can get the D with a Valk or a wildcat throwing the Flipping high S shot. The KEY thing about throwing FAR is the disc has to be alot HIGHER off the ground then for a NORMAL shot. I sure as heck cant throw 500 ft if the disc is only 6 or 7 feet off the ground the whole time. It also depends on what the wind is doing when im in the FIELD trying to throw HUGE D. I cant throw big with both the OVERSTABLE anhyzer flex and the hyzer flip S.

Finding a disc that work for YOUR STYLE can add 50 or more feet instantly. Keep trying i guess. While your trying to throw 500 im going to be practicing my PUTTING :D

Good luck

BTW- I bought a new roc today and tried matching my drives distance wise. I was very surprised when they started to fly as far and more consistant then my drives. Just needed to give them enough time to work.



Next step is to master getting your putter down there 300'. You start doing that, THEN you're golden!!

While your trying to throw 500 im going to be practicing my PUTTING :D

Good luck



Hahaha! I haven't forgotten the art of putting my friend. :D I think we all understand how important that aspect is, but some extra distance & accuracy never hurt anyone.

lol, i'll worry about throwing putters 300 when my game becomes more developed, not quite there yet ;)

When you guys are throwing 500+ are you just ripping overstable discs anhyzer or are throwing flat/slight hyzer release and letting the disc do the work.



I usually throw understable with a little hyzer and let it flip flat. That is the most consistant for me.

Hey everybody or anybody, if you know anyone who can rip the hell out of a disc in the surrounding states of Oklahoma send them our way to our state championships, its also a B-tier for the Haikey Creek Classic, anyways I just want to see someone break 600', we have potential here to do it, but I just want to see some major air :D....its not till September...
Billy

I think I may have a Texan that can win it. If he can come, you are in trouble BILLY HO! :D

(And I am not talking about me. I only have golf D. :D)

While your trying to throw 500 im going to be practicing my PUTTING :D

Good luck



Hahaha! I haven't forgotten the art of putting my friend. :D I think we all understand how important that aspect is, but some extra distance & accuracy never hurt anyone.



I've been practicing mid-range and putting all week. I went out to a big course yesterday and found that I was making par on many holes, and never worse than 5 tries. I was nailing putts. My drives were worse than when I first started playing. It's the best I've ever done on that course thou. Drive for show, putt for dough. :)

I measure by throwing from home plate of a baseball diamond and the fence is 230 feet all around, so I measure by pacing how far past the fence it went.

Average drive-
275' backhand
325' chicken wing
350 side arm including roll

Longest drive-
325' backhand
350' chicken wing
460' side arm including very long roll

Playing DG 4 months

Longest disc-
whippet backhand
XL chicken wing
X-Clone side arm



Good D Morgan!!!