When diving into the fascinating world of disc golf, one is inevitably confronted with unfamiliar jargon that seasoned players casually throw around. Among these terms, “hyzer” holds a significant place.
In this article, we will explore the meaning and origin of the word “hyzer,” along with its related concepts such as “anhyzer,” “hyzer flip,” and “spike hyzer.” Join us on this insightful journey as we unravel the language of disc golf and shed light on the intriguing roots of these terms.
Understanding Hyzer in Disc Golf
In disc golf, the term “hyzer” refers to the angle at which a disc is released into the air. It denotes the orientation of the disc in relation to the ground at the moment of release. When the ungripped edge of the disc is closer to the ground than the gripped edge, the disc is said to be on a hyzer angle. This concept applies to both backhand and forehand throws.
Backhand Hyzer
A backhand hyzer throw, executed by a right-handed player, involves releasing the disc with an angle that leans towards the ground on the side opposite to the player’s grip. This creates a distinctive flight path and allows for controlled turns and fades. Picture a professional player like Catrina Allen gracefully launching a backhand hyzer shot, captivating both the eyes and the imagination.
Forehand Hyzer
Similarly, a forehand hyzer throw by a right-handed player entails releasing the disc with an angle that tilts towards the ground on the side opposite to the player’s grip. This technique offers a different set of flight characteristics and can be used to navigate various obstacles on the course. Pro players like Sarah Hokom showcase their mastery by executing precise forehand hyzer shots, inspiring aspiring disc golfers worldwide.
The Genesis of “Hyzer”
The word “hyzer” was introduced to disc golf by the late Dr. Stancil Johnson, a distinguished figure in the world of disc sports and a founding member of the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA).
Dr. Johnson, in his 1975 book titled “Frisbee: A Practitioner’s Manual and Definitive Treatise,” coined the term “hyzer” to describe the angle at which a Frisbee (later adopted for disc golf discs) was released.
Paying Tribute to “Fling” Hyzer
Dr. Johnson attributed the term “hyzer” to H.R. “Fling” Hyzer, a legendary long-distance Frisbee champion from the early 1960s. He named this angle in homage to Fling Hyzer’s exceptional skills and the impact he had on the sport. Although several terms introduced in Dr. Johnson’s book did not gain popularity in disc golf, “hyzer” resonated with players, becoming a staple of the sport’s vocabulary.
Further Disc Golf Flight Patterns
To fully grasp the language of disc golf, it’s important to delve into additional flight patterns that complement the hyzer technique. These include the “anhyzer” angle, the “hyzer flip,” and the impressive “spike hyzer.”
Anhyzer Angle
An anhyzer angle presents the opposite orientation to a hyzer. When the gripped edge of the disc is closer to the ground than the ungripped edge at the point of release, it results in an anhyzer throw. This angle is commonly used to make a disc travel to the right for right-handed backhand throws.
Depending on the disc’s flight characteristics and the thrower’s power, the disc may continue on its rightward path or fade back to the left toward the end of its flight. The anhyzer technique can also be applied to right-hand forehand throws, providing versatile flight options.
Hyzer Flip
A hyzer flip is a throw where the disc is initially released on a hyzer angle but gradually transitions to a flatter or even an anhyzer angle during its flight.
This maneuver is often executed using understable discs, which tend to resist the natural hyzer angle and veer towards anhyzer. Skilled players, like Finnish disc golfer Väinö Mäkelä, expertly employ the hyzer flip technique to navigate straight fairways, making subtle adjustments mid-flight for optimum control.
Spike Hyzer
For those seeking more dramatic throws, the spike hyzer technique comes into play. With a spike hyzer, players release the disc with an extreme hyzer angle, nearly perpendicular to the ground. The disc maintains this angle throughout its flight, resulting in a sharp descent upon landing.
Spike hyzers create striking visual spectacles as the disc plunges forcefully into the ground, often leaving little room for skips. Touring professional Eric Oakley’s tutorial videos provide excellent examples of executing a spike hyzer shot with finesse.
Let’s Recap
Now equipped with a deeper understanding of the language and techniques of disc golf, you can confidently navigate the course and engage in discussions with seasoned players.
The word “hyzer” and its related concepts have become ingrained in the sport’s vocabulary, adding layers of nuance to the game. Whether it’s executing a backhand hyzer, unleashing a forehand hyzer, or attempting the finesse of a hyzer flip or spike hyzer, you can explore the full range of possibilities and witness the beauty of flight in disc golf.
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