Missed The 2020 GBO Live Q&As? Here's A Recap

Despite the fact that we’re still technically in Fall 2019, you’d better believe that the DD team is prepping for next year’s Glass Blown Open already. In fact, we’ve been making plans for months now and have just opened up registration for the 2020 event. If you weren’t able to set aside some time to watch our Q&A sessions on Facebook, here are some key things to keep in mind when registering!

Differences From Last Year

You can always expect something new at each year’s GBO, and in 2020, you’re going to see several pretty awesome changes. Some of the biggest news is the introduction of Jones Gold, a new course that will be used during the competition instead of the East and West layouts. We’re anticipating that it will be ready for practice play sometime in early February.

There will also be an expanded selection of weekend events to participate in and we’ve also added Kanza View DGC at Council Grove Lake, designed by Eric McCabe, to the competition. With a beautiful park setting and outstanding views, it might be TD Doug Bjerkaas’s favorite Emporia course. Last but certainly not least, players will see even more changes to the Country Club layout and there’s also a new division available for the first time at GBO - MA70!

Doug’s Pro Tips

Registration time can be stressful for both new and returning players, as divisions tend to fill up incredibly quickly. So far this year, we saw A-Tier slots fill up exceptionally fast with literally hundreds of people registering within the first few minutes it was open. If you’re not sure whether you can make it or not, consider these tips:

• If you get on the waitlist sooner rather than later, you’ll have a much better chance of actually getting to play. Make sure you’re high up on the list and you’ll be surprised how quickly you move up.

• When you absolutely have to play GBO but your desired division is full, you can always register for multiple spots - for example, add yourself to two different waitlists if you’d like. Simply cancel the one that you don’t get into and rest assured, you’ll be refunded.

• Don’t be dismayed if your division has filled up quickly because as time goes on, the DD team often changes the number of available openings.

Things To Remember

Aside from the typical GBO elements to think about like lodging and time off from work, there are other things that might influence your time in Emporia. If you’re coming simply to spectate, remember that you won’t have to pay anything to do so. However, if you do want extra discounts and some VIP goodies, consider registering for a special spectator badge.

Both this option as well as the various C-Tiers we have going on should be open for sign-ups around the first of December. Along with our numerous events that run during GBO week, you’ll want to pay special attention to our double disc flex-starts as they offer players the opportunity to win a sizeable amount of cash.

As always, we encourage you to reach out to us with any questions about GBO by emailing us at events@dynamicdiscs.com and head over to the official site for more info. If you’re already registered, post the good news on Facebook and make sure to include #gbomoment. See you in Emporia!

We Uncover A Wealth Of Disc Golf Knowledge By Learning More About DD Team Member Jonathan Ray

Take one look at Jonathan Ray and you can instantly tell that this is a man who knows the ins and outs of the disc golf world. He’s been on tour for years and has over 100 career events under his belt, but that hasn’t always been the case. In fact, when he was first introduced to the sport, he had no idea that he wasn’t playing actual golf!

“I got tricked,” he explained. “I thought I was going to play golf with some friends. I showed up in khaki shorts and a collared shirt with my golf clubs in a park that didn’t have a golf course. Turned out we were playing disc golf. I got my butt kicked and my competitive nature made me learn the game to heal my wounded pride. Turns out the sport has become my passion and my livelihood.”

This story truly marked the beginning of something special, as JRay is now a major part of the Dynamic Discs team. Let’s learn more about him and uncover some tips and tricks he has for those who love the game just as much as he does!

Recognizing A Need

So how exactly did JRay go from khakis on the course to playing professionally? His love for disc golf opened his eyes to the areas in which he could make a difference locally, and that slowly grew into something more and more impactful over time:

“Shortly after I started playing disc golf I discovered a need for structure and leadership in my local disc golf community. I jumped in headfirst and met Jeremy Rusco and Jeremy Kindy a few months later at Bowling Green Ams. We developed a great bond. I competed at Am Worlds in Emporia a few months later and was offered a sponsorship. Those relationships have continued to be cultivated for the last 7 years and brought me where I am today.”

Not only does JRay get the chance to travel the nation and play some of his favorite events - he notes that Beaver State Fling is at the top of his list - but he also gets to represent Dynamic Discs in a truly meaningful way. “Dynamic Discs is my family. Not in the cliché way that gets thrown around - truly family. I believe in them. I trust them. I work my ass off for them because we share a vision. I believe attitude reflects leadership and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

It’s Only Getting Better

JRay mentioned that this year he’s been focusing on his mental game and composure, and aside from bringing home three A tier wins in 2019, this dedication really paid off during his final round at US Masters with a 1082-rated performance on Maple Hill’s Gold course. Thankfully, he shared with us a few of his secrets for finding success on the course and on the road.

First and foremost, his staple discs are key. He relies on the Judge, Verdict, and Getaway to execute the shots he wants with consistency. Curious about some of his lesser-known secrets? “If you want to be a touring player don’t commit to one travel partner for the year. Life has its ups and downs and spending a relentless amount of time with one person is hard. Mix it up and travel with someone for a month at a time. Also, invest in baby wipes. Hobo showers are a real thing.”

Getting the chance to play a round with JRay would show anyone what it means to be a true professional who is dedicated to the sport and to growing the community of disc golf as a whole. We’re thrilled that he’s a part of our family and can’t wait to see what next year has in store for him!

This Winter You Can Play Disc Golf For A Good Cause - Here's How

There are already a ton of informal groups who utilize disc golf to raise money for those in need, and whether it’s an annual tournament that donates funds to a local organization or you’re involved with a one-time project, the feeling that you get from helping out is second to none. This winter, you can put your disc golf skills to the test and compete in the first annual tournament that’s designed to help the individuals who put their lives on the line for our country, the Veterans for Vets event.

It’s the brainchild of DD’s very own Doug Bjerkaas, and with so many veterans across the country who are already involved in the sport, the development of this event just made perfect sense. If you’re interested in helping to raise money to support local veteran's groups and simultaneously bolster your disc golf community, keep reading!

An Air Of Familiarity

After reviewing the guidelines for the Veterans for Vets event, you might be experiencing a bit of Déjà Vu, as the basic structure is modeled after the well-known Trilogy Challenge setup. However with this type of event, tournament directors have even more flexibility that better allows them to meet the needs of local golfers. A Veterans for Vets tournament can be held at any time between December 1, 2019 and March 1, 2020 and could be a flex-start, doubles, or singles style structure.

As with our other “tournament-in-a-box” options, players packs will be available to order and your event must be registered with us here. While we always want to spread the disc golf love to everyone we can, we’re offering an extra incentive to those who have at least 50 people registered to play. TD’s will be shipped a red, white, and blue Veteran basket that can be used as a raffle prize, a donation to a local course, or any other creative use you can come up with.

It’s For The Vets

Even one round tournaments can often bring up some feelings of competitiveness from players, but it’s important to keep in mind that a Veterans for Vets event is all about helping those who have risked their lives for us. To further drive this idea home, we’re changing up the divisions that are available for this tournament as follows: Advanced/Pro Male, Advanced/Pro Female, Novice Male, Novice Female, Veteran Male, and Veteran Female.

Ultimately, while taking home a trophy feels great, the idea behind Veterans for Vets is more than to provide a competitive event - we’re aiming to raise awareness around the sacrifice that veterans have made and the ways in which you can help. With every player’s pack purchase, a portion of the funds goes directly to a group local to you that helps veterans.

So many men and women who have served in the armed forces find disc golf to be an integral part of their lives, so consider hosting a Veterans for Vets event this winter! For any questions, contact us here and let’s work together to raise money for a great cause!

Meet Our New DyeMax Technician: Guthrie Briggeman

We have an exciting staff change to announce today. Guthrie Briggeman is the new DyeMax Technician at Dynamic Discs! Guthrie began working at Dynamic Discs two years ago as a warehouse floor employee, but his work ethic stood out, and he was asked to assist during busy seasons at DyeMax after only a short time. If you have met Guthrie or interacted with him, you know that he has an incredibly positive attitude and cares about making customers and employees feel right at home. "I'm excited to move forward with this Dynamic Discs in the DyeMax department. Looking forward to bringing my work ethic and energy to DyeMax and to continue the excellence our customers expect," Briggeman said.

Guthrie is one of many employees at Dynamic Discs who started at an entry-level position and has worked his way up to a new position. Matt Sedgwick began at Dynamic Discs as a hotstamp technician, and he now manages all of Dynamic Discs’ custom stamping and DyeMax orders. Kris Edson started at DD as a DyeMax Technician and was moved up to Product Manager where he has driven the production of many Dynamic Discs items that our fans know and love. Brian Shintaku moved to Emporia to work at Dynamic Discs, began as a warehouse floor employee, and now serves as the Team Manager for Latitude 64 and Westside Discs. If you’re interested in working in disc golf and moving up the ladder in a company, Dynamic Discs might be a perfect fit for you!

Any time that you email dyemax@dynamicdiscs.com, Guthrie will be responding and ensuring that your DyeMax discs meet our standards and yours. Please join us in welcoming Guthrie to his new position!

Dynamic Discs Month In Review - October 2019

Dynamic Discs employees and fans are often asked, “Which of your discs are the most popular?” We tend to think that we know the answers, but some of our ideas may or may not be biased depending on our personal favorites. It’s time to put all that speculation to rest with some COLD, HARD FACTS. It’s time for the Dynamic Discs Month In Review.

Some discs may appear twice or more because of different plastic types. Here are October's top sellers:

1. Lucid-X Suspect
2. VIP-X Chameleon King
3. Prime Burst Judge
4. VIP-X Glimmer Underworld
5. Opto-X Chameleon River
6. Lucid Raider
7. Lucid-X Chameleon Escape
8. Zero Medium Splatter Keystone
9. Prime Judge
10. Zero Medium Moonshine Pure
11. BioFuzion Raider
12. Prime Burst EMAC Truth
13. Prime Burst Escape
14. Retro Keystone
15. Lucid Vandal
16. Lucid EMAC Truth
17. Lucid Maverick
18. Fuzion Raider
19. Prime Burst Trespass
20. Classic Blend Burst Judge

Though the Suspect was recently retired, the celebration of a fifth world title for Paige Pierce warranted a special run of Lucid-X. And they’re good. Very good. The Judge is once again in the top 20 in 3 plastics and is joined only by the Keystone and Kristin Tattar Zero Medium Moonshine Pures as the only putters on the list. The EMAC Truth continues its reign amongst midranges, joined only by the Suspect in the top 20 this month. What does that leave for us? DRIVERS. The big bombers claim the remaining 11 spots, and the Raider remains in the top 20 in all its available plastics. The Raider is joined by perennial top finishers, the Trespass, Maverick, and Escape. Last but not least, the Chameleon and Glimmer releases have flown off of the shelves, and the King, Underworld, River, and Escape sales shot up the charts as a result. If you haven’t seen these discs in person, you’re missing out!

Thanks for joining us in looking at a snapshot of our best sellers. Which discs are you surprised to see off the list? Leave a comment below, and let us know why your favorite disc should make November’s Month in Review!

Resolving Injuries During The Offseason - How Can You Heal?

If you’re young and spry it’s probably a safe bet that you’re not getting hurt too terribly often on the disc golf course, unless you’re a full-time touring pro. The wear and tear that their bodies endure can be a lot, causing injuries among even the best in the game. Similarly, those of us who are older, not as physically fit, or have other pre-existing health concerns might end up with any range of issues as a result of playing.

Now that the offseason is upon us - at least for those who believe there is an actual disc golf offseason - it can be an ideal time to rest up and let our bodies heal. Rather than just sitting on the couch for the next three months, how can you actually take advantage of this break and get your body back on track?

Partner With A Professional

All too often we let a nagging ache in our bodies go untreated, and before long, these pains can transform into full-fledged issues. Sometimes people opt for going to physical therapy, yet there’s also another option to consider. For minor injuries that won’t seem to go away, why not partner with Disc Golf Strong and get the healing you need from someone who understands the trials our bodies go through during each and every round?

We’re not in any way discounting the therapy that could be provided to you by a local clinic, but if you’re seriously committed to your game, it makes sense to work with someone who knows how to meet your specific bodily needs.

Get Into Gear

While it’s not always the case, many times we sustain injuries during disc golf season because we’re not setting foot on the course in prime condition. Obviously, you don’t have to be fit whatsoever to play, but if you’re competing regularly enough to the point where you do get hurt, then it’s a wise idea to put time into exercising off the course.

Spending the next three months getting into shape isn’t just an investment in your overall health but it will help you to start the 2020 season in the best way possible. For some players, losing weight and simultaneously building strength can help with their stamina and even their form.

Taking It Easy

Everyone’s body is different, and we are in no way trying to dispense medical advice as only you know what will be the best way to approach an injury. Depending on what’s going on, you could benefit from resting, compression garments, alternating hot and cold packs on the affected area, and more. Just like there’s no right way to play the game we all love, there’s not a one size fits all way to heal from a disc golf injury.

If you’re curious to know how some of the DD Team handles their injuries, check out our latest video here. Feel free to drop us a comment below and let us know what you’ve found to be the most successful when it comes to healing during the offseason.

Visit Emporia - Emporia Knows Disc Golf

So you have been thinking about making the trek to the Disc Golf Capital of the World - Emporia, KS. Many refer to Emporia as the “Mecca of Disc Golf” because we have more permanent disc golf baskets in the ground per capita than anywhere else in the world. We plant disc golf baskets like trees and love growing disc golf at every opportunity.

This article is geared to help you make plans for coming to Emporia and getting the most out of your trip. Birthday parties, bachelor or bachelorette parties, bro weekends, family trips, or just a personal getaway, if you are coming to experience all things disc golf, you won’t be disappointed. If you haven’t made lodging plans yet, there is one place in Emporia that holds a special place in my heart, and that is the Country Club Estate Airbnb property. It is located in the most ideal part of town for your disc golf weekend and is a beautiful home that you will greatly enjoy with a Veteran basket in the backyard that is perfect for entertaining. I love interacting with my guests over a couple of beers when I’m in town, so if you want to talk disc golf, I’d be happy to stop by and say hello!

With most travelers coming to Emporia for an extended weekend, the ideal agenda begins no later than 11:00 am on Friday and begins with arranging a Dynamic Discs Warehouse Tour. When it is all said and done, this will get you out the door in time for lunch, and that is where I recommend heading to the Emporia Country Club and grabbing lunch, renting a cart, and enjoying 18 holes of championship disc golf.

After the Club, I’d make the 6-minute commute to Peter Pan Park to enjoy this beautiful course and historic park in Emporia. This is my favorite course to play in Emporia but one that I don’t play as often as I should, because it is a “long” 12-minute drive from my house, and Jones, Country Club, and Hammond Park are all within a couple of minutes for me.

No need to overdo things for the first day in town, so I’d suggest heading to your Airbnb or hotel, cleaning up, and getting prepared for a fun evening on the town. If you know anything about me, you know that I love Mexican food and some good margaritas, so if you run into me on a Friday evening at Casa Ramos, you shouldn’t be surprised. Say hello to Jenny & Carlos, and be sure to ask for the Jenny Margarita. I usually splurge and get Patron Tequila. Street tacos are not on the menu but can be made to order.

After a Jenny Margarita (or two), walk outside, turn left, and walk a few doors down to enjoy another beverage at Mulready’s Pub. This is a relaxed and casual bar that typically has more of an adult crowd during the evening, but as the elders get tired, the younger crowd starts to arrive. Uber & LYFT are not as prominent in Emporia, but there are typically a few drivers out and about helping to return people home safely at a reasonable price (or about 1000x less than a DUI).

Saturday: If you are looking for breakfast food, head down to Commercial Street Diner and enjoy a massive cinnamon roll, oversized pancakes, massive biscuits & gravy, or just some good cheesy crispy hashbrowns and eggs. If you didn’t stop in to check out the Dynamic Discs retail store on Friday, drive three blocks to the North and check out disc golf paradise! From the retail store, take the 3-minute drive to Jones East where you’ll be in for a challenging & enjoyable round. There are so many good lunch choices, but since Do-Bee’s has a basket on the property, head over there and tell them that you are in town because of disc golf and that you appreciate their support for disc golf.

Load up on caffeine and head back out to finish up the Jones Park West course, which is the shorter of the two. We have two gourmet coffee shops on Commercial Street where you can caffeinate or quench your thirst: Granada Coffee Company and Gravel City Roasters. Since there is plenty of extra time to get ready for your Saturday evening, go get in a quick 9 holes at Hammond Park to finish up the five ‘must-play’ courses before getting cleaned up and ready for a great Saturday evening. RADIUS Brewing Co. is a must and you’ll see why when you arrive. Great beers and a staff that supports and plays disc golf will quickly be evident. Grab a flight to take a sample of six different beers on tap. Don’t leave without picking up a Radius/DD shirt and/or disc. Looking to experience a little more nightlife? Head to Bourbon Cowboy, and maybe they’ll have their 9-hole mini disc golf course set up to play.

Sunday Funday - you are likely either completely wiped or ready for more golf. Pick a course from the bonus courses list, and you won’t be disappointed. If you haven’t had lunch at Bobby D’s BBQ, make sure you swing through there and enjoy some great Kansas BBQ. If you are looking for a little more shopping adventure, head over to Twin Rivers Winery where they have a wine-themed gift shop that carries bulk spices, cheeses, local honey and more. Emporia’s gourmet chocolate shop, The Sweet Granada, has hand-dipped chocolates, fresh baked cookies, fresh fudge, and the ever-popular PopChoc. Emporia even has a charcuterie, which you don't find just anywhere. Check out the fabulous selection of meats, cheeses, and accouterments that Vault Meats & Cheeses has to offer.

Thanks for coming to visit Emporia; we truly hope you can make it back to join us for GBO or simply for another weekend!

MUST PLAY:

Peter Pan Park (18-holes) | 1.5 hours

Jones East (18-holes) | 2 hours

Jones West (18-holes) | 1.5 hours

Hammond Park (9-holes) | 30 minutes

Emporia Country Club (18-holes) | 2 hours/cart, 2.5 hours w/o cart

Bonus Courses

New Life Christian Church (9-holes/18 tees) - 1 hour

Emporia RV Park (6-holes) 20 minutes

Swope Park - Cottonwood Falls (18-holes) 1.5 hours

Clover Cliff Ranch - Elmdale (18-holes) 2 hours

Kanza View - Council Grove (18-holes) 2 hours

https://visitemporia.com/

Jeremy Rusco
Dynamic Discs
Owner & Founder