Amateur

Started Disc Golf in 2021

During a summer holiday exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island—Twizel, Wanaka, and Queenstown, my wife and I kept noticing these strange metal baskets scattered across parks. Intrigued, we decided to give disc golf a try, picking up a simple frisbee and heading to Lismore Park in Wanaka for a casual round. It didn’t take long to realize that success in the sport required more than just a standard frisbee. Investing in proper discs opened up a whole new level of play, and before we knew it, we were hooked, seeking out courses across Dunedin and Otago to test our skills. Wanting to take our game further, we connected with Disc Golf Dunedin, where we were welcomed into a community that embodies the sport’s spirit of inclusivity and camaraderie. From those first casual throws to becoming part of a thriving club, this journey has proven that disc golf isn’t just a sport ... it’s a community, a challenge, and an adventure.

I’ve had plenty of proud moments in disc golf, but the one that stands out the most is winning the stacked MA40 division at the NZ Elite Silver Series “Day In The Lake 2024” in Te Anau, presented by Altitude Brewing. Consistently shooting 900+ rated rounds was an achievement in itself, but what made it even more special was sharing the winner’s circle with my wife, Maree, as she claimed yet another FA40 title. That moment solidified something for me—I’m not just here to take part, I’m capable of achieving great things in this sport.

Consistency is key! My training routine includes at least a couple of rounds of disc golf each week, often playing alongside school students I’ve introduced to the sport. Whether it’s at one of Dunedin’s disc golf courses or the course I designed in Palmerston, East Otago, every round is an opportunity to refine my skills. By incorporating games and physical exercises into my weekly program, I stay motivated to sharpen my putting, approach shots, shot shaping, and distance control. This structured approach ensures I’m ready for anything—whether it’s a casual round or the pressures of tournament play!

The #1 tip I wish someone had told me when I first started disc golf? Faster discs don’t equal more distance. It’s easy to think that grabbing a high-speed driver will automatically add big distance, but the truth is, control is everything. Experienced players can shape shots with any disc, but only because they’ve developed solid mechanics first. If you’re new to the game, start simple—a starter set, a reliable putter, a midrange, and maybe a low-speed fairway driver will help you build consistency. Once you understand your throwing style, then you can choose discs that actually fit your game. Control first, distance second. Master that, and you’ll improve way faster than if you just grab the fastest disc you can find!

Plastic Type: Atomic

Comment: "Lately, I’ve noticed a big jump in my throwing speed, and with that, my ability with my Kahu to shape shots with precision has taken off. What’s been most rewarding is seeing how a disc I first picked up as a beginner has now become one of the most essential tools in my bag. For the longest time before this, my Kahu XG has been a go-to for reliable distance. With the right amount of torque, I can comfortably shape its flight, watching it turn, fade, and land exactly where I need it—whether that’s parking a fairway or attacking the green. It’s a reminder that as our skills evolve, so does our relationship with the discs we trust."