In the southeast portion of Norway is the capital city of Oslo. South of Oslo is the town of Horten, Norway. That happens to be the town where Infinite Discs’ sponsored FPO player Lykke Lorentzen grew up. She has since moved to Tonsberg, just a quick trip away from Horten, where she currently has an apartment. Although she has the apartment, she says that as a touring pro it is difficult to declare a hometown. “Right now I tour full time and can’t really say I live anywhere,” jokes Lykke.
Growing Up
Lykke with her mom and grandma, wearing a bunad, a traditional Norwegian dress worn at special celebrations. Hers was made by her grandma.
Lykke grew up with two younger siblings, a sister and a brother. She is close in age with her sister and they remain good friends. She is also close to her mom and step dad. When she is not on the road, she loves to spend time with them back in Norway.
Disc golf became part of Lykke’s life about seven years ago. She and a former boyfriend moved to a city where disc golf was popular. She played a few times, but didn’t really catch the bug. After another move, she agreed to join a weekly league. “After that I was hooked,” said Lykke. “I’ve always been a competitive person. Keeping score and getting a results helped me want to improve.” At that point she was all-in! She began putting every day and playing as much as possible.
Going Pro
Lykke’s move to professional disc golf would have happened a little sooner, we’re it not for Covid. She was supposed to start in 2020, but had to wait a couple years. She said, “I toured as much as I could in 2022 and 2023, but since I’m from Europe and I didn’t have a visa I couldn’t play all the events.” For the events she did play, she had to fly back and forth from America to Norway. “In January 2024 my athlete visa got approved and I can officially tour full time,” she said. Then she added, “Which is super exciting!”
Even in here first year as a touring pro in America in 2022, Lykke finished in the top-20 at several Elite Series events, including a 13th-place finish at the Portland open. Last year (2023) she had several top-10 finishes, including Worlds, US Women’s Disc Golf Championship, and Idlewild.
This year, she’s already had top-five finishes in Jonesboro and Texas State, and got a win at the prestigious Las Vegas Challenge. “That felt awesome,” she said. “It felt great to finally have a win and play four good rounds.” She added, “It was a great experience and I learned a lot. Hopefully it will help me on the road to get my first Elite win.”
Winning LVC
As for how the win ranks in her career, she said it was big! “Winning my first Nationals back home was a big deal for me. So was playing good at Worlds last year,” she said. “But, the win in Vegas was definitely the biggest one so far.”
Despite picking up some nice finishes and a sweet win, she is still focused on getting the elusive Elite win, and improving her skills. “My goal is to play consistently better and play to my potential,” she said. “I want to have (an Elite Series) win, and I will work to learn as much as I can to get closer to reaching that goal.”
Keeping healthy is necessary to achieve her goals, and is something that Lykke takes seriously. “We are trying to be strict with our diet, and especially with eating enough protein every day,” she said. “I love to work out and we try to do it as much as we can. It gets a bit more difficult when we’re on tour, but we take our ab-workout seriously and go to the gym when we can.”
When asked who has influenced her career, Lykke offered a couple well-known players. “I look up to Kristin (Tattar) for her mental game and how she focus on playing as good as she can and not just results,” she said. “I look up to Bradley (Williams) for the way he tries to get better every year and not settle for being “okay”.
The Future
Not only does Lykke expect to see her game improve, she expects big things from the sport of disc golf. She expects the growth to continue into the future. “I hope it’s way bigger that it is right now,” she said. “We might see a separate MPO and FPO tour as the field grows bigger every year.”
Since Lykke has an open bag, meaning she can throw discs from multiple brands, she has a lot more options to choose from than many pros. Which discs does she like? “My favorite discs are the Maya, Emperor, Pharaoh, and the Dynasty,” she said. We like her choices!
The only thing she likes more than her discs is her fans. “My fans are amazing! I wouldn’t be here without them and appreciate every single one,” said Lykke. “Their support means a lot and every disc I sell really helps me to stay on tour!”
On January 4, 2023, Infinite Discs hosted new team member Eric Oakley (Aroc) on our Discord server where he answered your questions. Here is a transcript of the questions:
Beef Lips: May I start with a 2 year extension pog? First and most real question, Do you think with Paul McBeth skipping PDX, DDO,DMC and Preserve more touring pros will start playing European tour events in favor of some of these increasingly ball golf course tourneys?
Aroc: I think for the top players it will be an option, but for most players trying to make the DGPT Championships they will need to play those events!
Beef Lips: What new molds (besides the spice) are you trying out and most excited for?
Aroc: DGA Quake! Halo Dynasty as well!
Beef Lips: Everyone needs a bag, are you in works with a new bag sponsor and can you tease anything?
Aroc: I have a collaboration in the works. They are a European Company! Bags just hit the States so I should have them super soon!
Beef Lips: Disc golf AMAS are always full of “Whats your favorite tour stop”. What tour stop do you think is the most “fair” on average, considering OB lines/rules, usual weather (cough Kansas wind cough) and other outliers and factors us more casual players might not consider?
Aroc: Des Moines fashow!
Beef Lips: New van looks sick, have you named it yet?
Aroc: Her name is Nancy, Nancy Nissan, she is Fancy!
DRB: How many hours per week do you practice? Can you elaborate on your practice routine?
Aroc: I practice about 5-7 days a week, mostly a mix of field work and course work. I’m trying to do 100 made putts a day. I try and use the field work to apply to my course work, and use my course work to give me stuff to work on for my field work. Probably, 60% Course work atm, 40% field work!
SuperBone: Did the crow hop in your backhand come naturally to you or was it something you added later on?
Aroc: It’s something I saw early on with Steve Brinster, and I adopted it when I was probably 15-16 years old and it stuck!
Schrodingers Joe: Hello, Eric! Long time listener, first time caller. Your first year with Infinite was your first year in a long time where you were able tp put any disc in your bag you wanted. When picking discs for certain slots in the bag, what were the deciding factors that made you lean towards a specific disc over a comparable mold from a different manufacturer?
Aroc: Partially based on the manufacture, I was always looking to support my main sponsors first, but in the end I need to throw what helps me perform the best. I always looked to go off of what felt the best and then what flew the best. I have a good basis of what slots I need to cover and I stick with that.
n8n: Who was the first touring pro that you hit it off with when you went pro? In your time touring, have you noticed any changes in how close touring professionals have gotten with each other?
Aroc: JohnE McCray was the first real pro I interacted with and it was HUGE for my development. I bonded incredibly well with Bobby Musick and he will forever remain one of favorite players of all time!
SeanFace: Do you have any special minis that hold some kind of importance or memory to you?
Aroc: Absolutely, I have some Saba Ping Minis that I love to support the POD and a few St Louis Blues minis I use. Tina also found a great mini she made for me that has been rotating in and out.
SeanFace: Any west coast stops this year? I’ll be at the OTB Open and LVC
Aroc: I’m hitting all DGPT Elite Series and a handful of Silver Series. I’ll see you at both of those!
Crokz: What discs should i swap out in my bag, or what should i do with my bag. I only bad Innova made molds 12. pd2(3) destroyers/dd3(7) 11. pdx(1) wraith(1) mamba(1) 10. pd(2) 9. fd3(2) cd2(1) sidewinder(1) roadrunner(1) 7. fd2(1) fd(3) it(1) 5. roc3(2) md3(1) mako3(1) 4. toro(1) roc(1 os and 1 flippy) 3. p2(1) tomb(1) dart(1) 2. jk aviar(2) 1. polecat(1)
Aroc: 12. Emperor for sure! 10. Spice 9. Scepter. Halo Dynasty, Sphinx. 7 . Exodus, Centurion 5. Chariot and Maria Anubis 3. ALPACA!!!!!! 2. ALPACA!!!!!
McShotty: What’s your favorite stamp design?
Aroc: Any of my TSA collaborations. Probably the Alpaca is my favorite, with the Dynasty/Pathfinder being a close second.
Beef Lips: WHEN WILL THE STAMP STORY BE REVEALED?!
Aroc: Story stamp video should be filmed here super soon. I’m working on the next set of designs with TSA atm. Including the introduction of our main antagonist and our first female character.
NoSkillManiac: Are you going to be at Champions cup?
Aroc: I’m planning on it, Just need the PDGA to open registration.
InfiniteDylan: Are you going to play Fall Guys during your 24 hour stream? 😛
Aroc: Fall Guys is on the docket!
Al Greazy: I got in a fight with my mailman today because I keep asking him where my Halo Dynasty is. He told me to ask you on the AMA instead of hitting him anymore. So…..
Aroc: They are on the way! The final release will line up with LVC, so a longer wait, but it will be worth it!
Finch: Any idea when we may see stock Spice? Didn’t get a box but would love to try one.
Aroc: Working on the stamp with TSA for the next release. Hoping for something super soon!
Myle: What is biggest advice for amateur who wants be marketable because wants be sponsored?
Aroc: Post often. Show the love for the game and that you are helping the sport grow even without a sponsor so anyone who comes along to sponsor you just amplifies the things you are already doing.
Crokz: What’s your favorite signature series disc of all time, any manufacturer?
Aroc: Not my molds, Calvin Heimburg Halo Destroyer. My mold Pathfinder/Dynasty/Alpaca/Spice 4 way tie LOL
Baja: Are you going to Waco this yea?
Aroc: I’ll be there!
RainbowSmaug: Who is your favorite cameraman on the Whale Pants YouTube channel?
TheHunter924: Who do you want to have on ‘is that good’ next?
Aroc: Planning on filming one with Missy Gannon and Paige Pierce here super soon. Hoping to get a handful more in 2023.
Mysterymirrors: Hey Eric. Can we get a special stamp on a Tomb for Easter? “The Empty Tomb” Pull some strings. Thanks for interacting with the infinite community so much!
Aroc: @InfiniteDylan this is a great idea LOL
Rivalmejr: What disc did you expect to love and ended up not being for you? In addition, what disc did you not think you’d like but then liked?
Aroc: I was expecting myself to love the Buzzz, but I ended up finding the Pathfinder and the angle I like to release on is so much better for the Pathfinder in comparison to the Buzzz.
Myle: Are you ever thought about an ‘is that good’ video where you give amateur your new signature disc and they tell is it good?
Aroc: I love this idea. This could be great for Youtube Shorts or Instagram Reels!
mandalorian540: With the berg, kotare, and spice you have done what seem like single disc sponsorships. I know this is something Drew has talked about before for open bag players. Do you see this as a future of the sport? OR will manufacturers eventually have all slots filled with the same quality of disc in a homogenized boring market?
Aroc: I think there’s too much of a stronghold from the big manufactures that it will be hard for it to become the norm. But it is definitely a possibility, we just need companies to understand the value.
TheHunter924: Can we get an “is that good” for different baskets?
Aroc: I love this idea. But this could easily make some people mad 😬
Kightsbridge: When not prepping for a tournament course. Do you practice on technical courses or bomber courses?
Aroc: I try and plan out what course is coming up next. If I have no event ahead I try and get a good mix so I can feel confident on both.
Crokz: How do your glow d-blend alpacas compare to imperial eagle 2s (glow p-line p2s)
Aroc: Imperial Eagles are Glow P-Line P2s and I wanted the Glow P- Blend Alpacas that I have for my tour series to be similar to the IE P2s. They are incredible and only get better with age.
Cobra: Are there any out of production discs you wish you could bag but can’t justify because they’re hard to replace/expensive?
Aroc: Not atm. Infinite has helped work making some great molds that were hard to find before with their great relationship with Innova.
TheHunter924: Hey Eric, what is your favorite alpaca plastic?
Aroc: Glow P or D Blend.
i shot a pigeon: If there was a disc slower and less glidey than a Beorg, would you bag it?
Aroc: Nah, BEORG is BIS.
Crokz: If I gave you a cloudbreaker2 would you bag it?
Aroc: I have Emperors, so I don’t need CBs. Emperors are the perfect disc for me.
Unlucky: What were your favorite things about your Discmania van touring days? What do you miss about the scene / what has the scene lost since those days? What are you glad we’ve grown passed and don’t have to deal with anymore? Thanks for doing this Eric : )
Aroc: Just the simplicity of being on the road. But now it’s such a great touring scene and I love it. DM was such a great option for me to grow.
SeanFace: I stopped by OTB yesterday and grabbed a Lucid Justice, how scared should I be?
Aroc: They are good for one thing only… Fading.
TheHunter924: Can we expect an Eric Oakley Coalesce?
Aroc: Likely not, But there will be a tour series Coalesce from someone, no doubt!
SeanFace: Follow up: if you’ve thrown the Coalesce, how much does it differ from the Omen?
Aroc: Very Different. Omen is OS, Coalesce is more Thunderbirdish.
mandalorian540: Assuming the Pathfinder is the best mid in the sport, what’s the second best? And why is it the Ursus?
Aroc: Ursus just is so wonderful. It does everything I need and feels so good!
Spoot: What’s your favorite new mold from the past year?
Aroc: Dynasty and Pathfinder are the first that come to mind.
Ay lmao: What was it like to help design the Spice and what kind of disc do you want to have a hand in designing next?
Aroc: I’m wanting to keep working to make sure the Spice has a couple variations so we can love two slightly different runs that work perfectly together. Not sure what I would choose next since I’m just loving my bag so much atm.
Spoot: If you could have any doubles partner from any period in time, who would it be?
Baja: How far is your max distance forehand and backhand?
Aroc: Backhand If I’m feeling SUPER GOOD. Backhand is like 425-460 If I’m feeling CRAZY GOOD! But I focus on throwing 400-450 super accurate for backhands and about 375-400 for forehands.
HeroesNeverQuit: Are pros signed under an nda to not disclose what they are being paid etc, or do a lot not talk about it publicly for personal reasons?
Aroc: It’s all up to the pros and the sponsors what gets shared. Not sure what is best.
Mark IV: Favorite shot or moment in your disc golf career? Anything that really sticks out??
Aroc: Ft Stelly always sticks out. It really boosted my confidence that I was doing the right thing.
Baja: What do you think of Lone Star’s giant Ranger team?
Aroc: Hey, people are talking about their discs a ton now. Seems like a decent play, but we will see if they can keep it up.
Đę$iǤИęƦ D̸͘͜R̸̆͠Ṻ̷́G̵͛͋S̸̄̚: So how many TSA discs in the works for you?
Aroc: More Pathfinders for sure, and likely a small run of Votums.
Crokz: What are your thoughts on night strike fds, they are prob my most reliable fairway and i love them
Aroc: Exodus is super close and the Halo Centurion cover similar slots and they are SOOOOO GOOOOD!
Mark IV: I have pathfinders in glow, aura, and ethereal, for some reason I haven’t thrown an ethos one… why do you prefer the ethos plastic to the others?
Aroc: It was the plastic I first threw and loved it, I throw Ethos Mantra, Votum and Construct. Ethos and I just work… EthOs…. it makes sense LOL
SeanFace: Tomb or Praxis?
Aroc: Alpaca, Popcorn, Envy, Berg is my putter lineup.
Cobra: Who on tour last year were you most surprised about changes they’ve made to their game/personality?
Aroc: Gannon. Kid is just unbelievably confident and it’s so awesome to see.
McShotty: What gap in TSA’s lineup would you like to see filled?
Aroc: Maybe a stable Mid like Quake. Distance driver that has a little more go than the Synapse, or retool the synapse to get some dome!
TheHunter924: Biggest advice for breaking the 900 rating?
Aroc: Make smarter decisions. Play for Par and make your putts. Eating a bogey is generally better than trying to save par.
Bueno: You are on a deserted island with all your friends. In order to leave you must land a disc on the island next to you. 250’ (standard island distance) Island diameter 33’. One shot or your stuck for a month. What are you throwing?
Aroc: Pepper because it doesn’t skip!
Al Greazy: Real men throw dyed discs. Thoughts?
Aroc: Madd Discs helped me through puberty.
Crokz: Did you make the Spice to replace a pd
Aroc: Spice was meant to be more of a Felon/Firebird type disc, but the goal was for it to not be STUPID OS, it is meant to be throwable for all and super workable. I think we nailed it.
SeanFace: Have you had any misadventures flying with discs? Do you check your disc bag and has anything even gone missing?
Aroc: Always carry on my bag. Never checking my bag, but I do check my backups.
Crokz: What dynasty flies most similar to roaming thunder 2s?
Aroc: Depends on how OS RT2s are. Halos are the most OS like First Run C CD2s, Metal Flake Color Glow are a small step down from the Halos, S Blends are super workable and dead straight and I/C blends start kinda stable but beat in faster.
TheHunter924: Berg or glitch
Aroc: Different Discs. Berg is so unique and the Glitch is Sonic/Bite/Polecat like.
Al Greazy: I tend to have really sweaty hands in the summertime. Do you know of anything that can help me with this?
Aroc: WHALE SACS 4 LYFE!!!
HeroesNeverQuit: When you swapped to infinite you obviously tried out a lot of molds and plastics. I haven’t watched your play or any in the bags. Are there any dynamic discs that you still bag because you just couldn’t find a good replacement for them or just love the mold that much?
Aroc: Nope. All Trilogy is out. Claymore was holding strong but I lost it in Norway and tried out the Berry and the rest is history. Claymore is still the most underrated disc in the market IMO.
TheHunter924: Who is the best card mate?
Aroc: Bobby Musick, MJ, Zach Melton, Chris Dickerson
Crokz: What is the best foil?
Aroc: Anything but Gold or Copper or Camo. I love Black and White.
SeanFace: Favorite mid-round snack?
Aroc: Belvita Breakfast Cookies.
Spoot: Any new discs you’re testing to see how they fit your game?
Aroc: Mint to battle with my Zone!
Crokz: If you could take one part out of a different pros game, what part of whose game would it be?
Aroc: Ricky’s ability to shank and still birdie. He’s gotten so much cleaner so it doesn’t happen as much, but he used to steal strokes from people ALL THE TIME after being the worst off the tee. Scramble game is UNREAL!
CommanderFox2K: What advice would you give to someone who wants to get sponsored?
Aroc: Set a foundation that shows you are growing the sport so that any company who comes along amplifies what you are doing. Don’t wait for a sponsor to build that foundation. Play a ton, Promote a ton, post a ton and be amazing in your community.
Cobra: Does a specific type of shoe make a difference for you?
Aroc: I’m hooked on Vivo Barefoot. I was heavy into Nike Trail, but Vivos are the best shoes I’ve ever used and I don’t see myself going away from Vivos.
TheHunter924: Hopefully I get to meet you at the dgpt championship this October! Are you planning on filming any videos in Nc soon!
Aroc: Not soon, but definitely when the tour makes it back that way!
On January 19, 2023, Infinite Discs hosted new team member Erika Stinchcomb (Emstinchcomb7) on our Discord server where she answered your questions. Here is a transcript of most of the questions:
zin the zinny: Do you play disc golf valley? What video games do you play?
Emstinchcomb7: Yes disc golf valley! Getting an Erika Sword on there was a dream come true. I only have a Switch, so Mario Kart and Fortnight mostly. I’ve been playing ghosts of Tsushima on my friend’s ps4, it’s amazing
Rivalmejr: Hi Erika! Welcome to discord. For my question, how are you liking your new sponsors? Will we see more of you on tour this year?
Emstinchcomb7: I like my sponsors a lot! I’ll be doing a similar amount of tournaments as last year (20ish dgpt), but I think my new sponsors will help promote me more
Semomu: Have you settled on any discs to replace the mainstays of your own bag? Found anything new you’re enjoying that you had nothing like that before?
Emstinchcomb7: New stamp and my original drawing hahahaha
Lord_Mortivore: Hello erika! Have you joined the #tombgang yet?
Emstinchcomb7: I’ve thrown a tomb, I like the stability but I’m not sure I am into the bead. I’ll keep trying it!!!
RSP: Can we get an (Erika Stinchcomb) Aztec?
Emstinchcomb7 I’ve only thrown an Aztec a few times! I am not sure what to do for my tour series
Beef Lips: Erika! favorite new mold??
Emstinchcomb7 Big question! Peach and Wild Honey for Clash, Praxis and Mana for TSA, Maya and Cohort for Infinite. It’s early
Myle: You were know from your sword. sword staying bag or something else like emperor?
Emstinchcomb7: Sword staying for now, it’s a great discs and my hybrids are my babies, I just have a lot of trust. I haven’t found a replacement immediately but I want it to happen naturally. Also being open bag means I don’t have to switch!!!
Rivalmejr: In what ways can we support you this year? (Drop plugs!)
Emstinchcomb7: Skybreed discs has all my trilogy stuff, so buy AmErika Swords and Tursases and whatever else!!! Later I’ll have stuff on Infinite as well!!!! I’ll be vending with Eric and James at every DGPT event too
N8rtot73: why are your Tour of Amerika and Hot Goose stamps so fire always? more of a compliment but still lol
Emstinchcomb7: My guy Levi Whitpan is a genius! He takes what’s in my brain and makes the best art!
N8rtot73: do you have a favorite dish or something you consider your signature dish you make when you are either touring or home for the offseason?
Emstinchcomb7: I make a turkey chili type thing, a jambalaya-ish thing, a lot of stir fry, poke bowls, spam musabi, pearl cous cous with veggies, Italian sausage/kale/mushroom/potato soup
N8rtot73: have you come across any that have surprised you? maybe you were not super sure you would like or something that gave you that “whoa…” moment?
Emstinchcomb7: Kon Tiki is the weirdest shallowest disc… but I think I like it
Lord_Mortivore: You should try a Cataclysm from Doomsday Discs.
Emstinchcomb7: I’ve got a few Doomsday to try! The Landmine looks crazy hahaha
SuperBone: Not really a question but I think we need a GOOSE Berry from Clash!
Emstinchcomb7: OMG
Zack P: Have you tried out any DGA discs?
Emstinchcomb7: Not yet, but doing commentary for Catrina makes me want to try a Sail and a Bonzai for starters
Deuce2223: How does the Wild Honey and Maya compare. I am still looking for a US Control driver. I have a C Blend Maya but just ordered 2 Wild Honey
Emstinchcomb7: Wild Honey is just as flippy as a Maya but with a bit more finish. The Maya has effortless drift for me, but not much fade. They fulfill different roles I think, Maya is more touchy/woods, big turn overs, Wild Honey is big distance on open shots (without wind haha)
Rivalmejr: Will you be featured on more videos this year? I’d love to see more of you on tour be it in competition or in videos with say Tina and Eric
Emstinchcomb7: Yes! Lots of stuff with Eric and James I think, working with Connor for Infinite and Bobby for Clash
HeroesNeverQuit: Who are your top two players to have on your card when playing?
Emstinchcomb7: Ohn scoggins #1 all the time. I love playing with Missy for her positivity, and Callie so I can talk smack
Baja: favorite chip ?
Emstinchcomb7: Oh man. Ummmm do Flaming Hot Cheetos count? It’s my favorite road snack because it’s a whole activity: eat, pant, repeat, try to clean fingers, eat more
Thanks everyone! I think got most people! I’ll come back! Erika
I grew up in Ramona California, about 45 minutes Northeast of San Diego. It’s a small mountain town, and obviously in moving to Western Montana, that secluded mountain vibe is a key part of who I am. There was a lot of open space to run as a kid. I loved where I grew up and honestly, I am sometimes sad that my parents moved away. I still have a ton of family in the area, including my younger sister and brother-in-law.
How did you discover disc golf?
Occasionally as a kid I would join my dad on his water delivery routes (think 5 gallon bottles of water delivered to homes and businesses). I loved to try to carry the heavy bottles all by myself, and climb on his big water truck, using the necks of the bottles as handholds. He’d always buy me a big Slurpee from 7-Eleven after our hard day of work.
One day when I was 8, during one of my take-your-daughter-to-work outings, my dad surprised me and took me to Morley Field Disc Golf Course. He bought me a DX Panther from Snapper at the pro shop, and we played. I barely remember it. Then 8 years later, suddenly he took me and my brother again. I was 16, and I thought “why haven’t I been playing this my whole life?” I was immediately hooked. My brother Jason and I would go to the park and work on our distance. My Dad would take me and Jason to Morley Field at the crack of dawn on Saturdays, so we could beat the rush for our first round, and then play a leisurely second round as it got crowded.
When did you turn pro?
I didn’t know there were tournaments until I graduated college in 2014. My first tournament was in July of 2014, after that I played FA1 and dabbled in FPO in 2015 and 2016. I didn’t officially consider myself a pro until 2017, when I decided to do a self-funded, unsponsored mini tour in 2017. I was able to tour for nearly 6 months and made it to the DGPT Championships. I did get sponsors as I traveled, but I would have been out there sponsor or no sponsor.
What was it like the first time you took cash as a pro?
My first cash was anticlimactic. I could have taken cash in 2016, but wanted to continue as an amateur. I didn’t cash until my 9th pro event of 2017, and that was in a field of 2 at the Challenge at Goat Hill. What I consider my first “real” cash was a month later, when I took 2nd at the Zoo Town Open, my home tournament held in Missoula, MT.
Who did you look up to when you were first starting out?
I never watched videos or even knew there were tournaments until I was 21 and started playing FA1. My role models became people I met. Zoe Andyke was the first person that when I asked “what do you do for a living” the answer was “disc golf” and my mind was blown. I got to play a round with Zoe at Daisy Chains in 2015 and her positivity was inspiring.
Later that year, I played FPO in the Phoenix Ladies Open, and felt both intimidated and outclassed. It was a small field and I was on the lead card for the second and final round; my nerves were palpable. Ohn Scoggins was on the card, and her support was unforgettable; her kindness that day is one of the reasons I am Ohn’s biggest fan. I would mess up a drive or upshot and she’d say “it’s okay girl, it’s just a jump putt!”
Don’t get me wrong, I’d go out and watch Paige Pierce, Catrina Allen, Sarah Hokom, Valerie Jenkins, Jennifer Allen and all of those big names whenever I got the chance, but for me Zoe and Ohn were my biggest inspirations. Being nice, welcoming, inclusive and making a living playing disc golf became my dream, just like Zoe and Ohn.
What are some of your goals for next year?
Last year I lost a bit of my fire for the game. Disc Golf felt more like a job, and the job was throwing way more big open shots instead of the finesse woods golf I loved. Signing with Infinite has literally opened my world up to try so many new discs and re-discover my joy of simply watching a disc fly. I want to enjoy disc golf next year more than anything else, rather than feel mind-crushing pressure to perform. I think with a more relaxed, joyful attitude, I am naturally going to play better next year. I decided I am not going to have specific performance based goals. I am lucky to be able to play disc golf and make a living, and I am going to celebrate those facts. I believe results will follow.
Will you be commentating again this year as one of the Two Hot Geese (with Madison Walker)?
Because we do not have an official agreement at this time, I am not sure if Madison and I will be doing commentary next year, but we hope to be calling the shots again in 2023!
What do you picture disc golf looking like in 5 years (Growth, competition, contracts, etc.)?
I couldn’t have guessed the sport would grow so much in the past 5 years, let alone where we are going next. From an FPO standpoint, 5 years ago, 25 was a great field size. Now we can hit 75 with relative consistency. Disc Golf media was much less comprehensive, very few people had contracts that paid in real money and not just an allotment of discs, the list goes on. In 5 years, I – like many – would love to see disc golf as an Olympic Sport. I hope that as a pro, having a tour card means you make a liveable wage without all the side hustle that is required for most mid-level pros.
Outside of professional disc golf, I truly hope the growth of our sport wasn’t just a byproduct of Covid, and it continues to grow. I’d love to see a lot of new courses, continued free or cheap entry to play, access for all walks of life, involvement from parks and recreation, forest service and other organizations to preserve and maintain the land courses are on, avid disc golf clubs and all the things we have now including fan access to pro disc golfers. I hope we don’t lose the fact that disc golf is a sport for everybody. I like to tell people disc golf is whatever you want, a solitary retreat, exercise, maybe a place to drink a beer with your dumb buddies; you can take your dog or take your grandpa, all are welcome.
What Infinite molds do you throw?
I have not had a lot of time to adjust to new molds with the timing of switching contracts. Additionally, Montana winter golf doesn’t always allow for full-power shots. That being said, an I-blend Maya is my favorite right now, since it has effortless understability yet a reliable slight fade at the end. I have been throwing the Dynasty and Centurion for control drivers, and using a Cohort for straight upshots, as well as trying them for my putting putters. I am sure things will change and I am so excited to try everything!
Do you have any shout-outs or people you would like to acknowledge?
I have to give the biggest shout out to Eric Oakley, who gave me a hand when I felt like I was drowning. Leaving Westside was not the outcome I saw for myself in 2022 and I had very little time to decide what I wanted and how to get it. Todd Durrant has been kind and patient and I think that my vision of what I want disc golf to be totally aligns with Infinite’s. I also want to give a shout out to my husband Ian Harris, who has been a reassuring source of comfort and strength as we have toured the last 2 years; he always helps push me forward if I doubt myself. I want to thank my Mom for always watching UDisc Live Scoring even though it stresses her out. Lastly I want to thank my Dad – David Stinchcomb – for teaching me to play.
Infinite is on-board with working with my sponsors who have supported me for years: Whales Sacs and Skybreed Discs. I was scared that signing a new company meant losing my other sponsors. The sense of cooperation Infinite has is something to admire, and a way to grow the sport better than we can alone. Not only can I continue with my old sponsors, I also will get to work with Clash Discs and Thought Space Athletics this year. The opportunities I see are literally infinite and I can’t wait to get started.
I played golf a lot after high school. One of my best friends at the time traveled out of Eugene and found out about the sport of disc golf and then when he came back to town, he showed me a game he thought I would absolutely love. For me, it was love at first sight. Disc Golf was the perfect blend of every sport I loved and my deep love for the outdoors.
When did you turn pro?
2010
What was it like the first time you took cash as a pro?
I took cash at my very first professional event, 2010 Great Northwest Open. I tied for last cash with a couple others and won $15. Even though it was barely anything, it validated my decision to move up and play MPO, and that I was a contender in the Oregon scene! Big Deal!
Who did you look up to when you were first starting out?
I really looked up to Nate Sexton, Dion Aryln, Brodie Miller, Dave Feldberg, and Erik “Buck” Smith who were all the best players in Oregon when I decided to play professional disc golf as a real career choice. Oregon was a powerhouse in the professional scene, which meant that I had a LOT of really good players that I could look up to and mold my game after.
What are some of your goals for next year?
I only plan on playing a few of the “elite series or majors” but I do plan on playing some classic events in Oregon that I haven’t been able to play for many years. I have a goal of playing around 15-20 events and I really want to win at least 3 events this year! I will be training like crazy and when I do get to play, I will be ready and focused to play at the best of my ability. I will also be traveling to many different countries next year and I also have a goal of learning how to speak better Spanish.
What do you picture disc golf looking like in 5 years (Growth, competition, contracts, etc.)?
Disc Golf is at its blossoming stage as a sport and with proper care from the people taking care of it, it will grow into a very strong and mature thing. This is the best time to be a part of the sport and players and companies pretty much have a blank slate as far as the “how to” and “direction” the sport is heading. For the players who grinded out the stale years of exposure and financial gain, we are finally there, and we can really make disc golf a real career. It will only continue to grow over the next few years and for those who have committed themselves to disc golf, the rewards will continue to flood in.
What Infinite molds do you throw?
I currently throw the Emperor, Sphinx, and “my new signature disc”. I’m liking the Chariot, Centurion, Scepter, and Aztec but they haven’t 100% made the bag yet.
Do you have any shout-outs or people you would like to acknowledge?
I wouldn’t be in this position without Zoe AnDyke and all of her amazingness. She has put me in front of so many people and companies and has sold my personality and skills to them which I am forever grateful for. I also want to give a huge shout out to Todd and Dylan (at Infinite) for always being so nice to me and always leaving the door open for me to join the team. This truly is a dream come true for me, and together, myself and Infinite are going to make some big things happen!
Thank You Dustin! We look forward to continue working with Dustin in helping him to accomplish his goals.
Rohnert Park, California (1 hour north of San Francisco)
How did you get into disc golf?
In the early 2000s my dad and I learned together on a course near my house. We started playing weekly’s and then got into tournaments.
When did you turn pro?
2011 was my first year in Open. I cashed at Worlds in Santa Cruz and got 14th at the NT in Tahoe.
What was it like the first time you took cash as a pro?
I don’t remember the feeling, or the tournament really, but it was my first event as a pro, the 2011 Auburn Open.
Who did you look up to when you were first starting out?
The first big time pro I made a connection with was (Gregg) Barsby, right after he chained out for an ace in a playoff for King of the Lake in 2010. I grew up with a lot of old school golfers in NorCal, Roger Cansler, John Child, Peter Sontag, Anni Kreml to name a few.
What are some of your goals for next year?
It will be my first full year on tour, so my first goal is to make the most of it and enjoy the experience. I’m excited to meet new people, grow my name a little bit and obviously play well. Consistency is something I will focus on next year, I know I can compete at the highest level, so my goal will be to limit the bad rounds that take you out of contention.
What do you picture disc golf looking like in 5 years (Growth, competition, contracts, etc.)?
I love the idea of public contracts in the future, I think it gives more control to the players. As far as growth, sky is the limit. The Pro Tour has done an amazing job in such a short time, and every year they are continuing to push the envelope. Along with growth of the sport comes more competition, so I see it getting deeper year after year.
What Infinite molds do you throw?
So far I’m really loving the Dynasty, in Metal Flake Glow and Halo. I putt with the Glow Alpaca and I use the Emperor for most distance shots. I also really like the Czar for long turn overs or forehands.
Introducing Infinite Discs team member, Maria Oliva!
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Guatemala, and lived there for about five years. Then I moved to Dallas, Texas with my parents.
I started playing disc golf when I was 14 and then went pro shortly after that. And that’s what I’ve been doing ever since. Disc golf has been a big part of my life.
How did you discover disc golf?
My dad discovered it for us. He wanted the family to have something to do on the weekends that was outside and cheap. They had disc golf discs at a sporting goods store, so that’s where he got them. My first disc was a Champion Monarch. My dad got a Groove and the Monarch was similar.
My dad played and he would take me out on the course, but at first I was not stoked to be there. Texas was hot in the summer and I didn’t like the heat, or being outdoors, or the bugs and critters. Basically everything about it was a ‘no’ for me. I felt that way for a long time, but then in High School the bug just bit me and I’ve never stopped playing.
One of the things I liked about disc golf is that I didn’t need anyone else to play. I could just be out there alone and no one would know I was there. Then I could just head home when I was done.
When did you turn pro?
I got my PDGA number when I was 14, then turned pro a couple years later. I did that because there wasn’t a lot of competition in the Dallas area. There weren’t any women playing other than in the FPO division, and I didn’t want to win a lower division by being the only player. Which I think is a good idea because it helps you learn faster. So, I turned pro pretty quickly because I had to, in order to play with others.
What has been the highlight of your professional disc golf career so far?
It seems pretty cliché, but I would have to say my first Disc Golf Pro Tour win this past November. New World Championship for me was very special. It was definitely something that I wanted to achieve this year, and I didn’t see it happening, but then it did! And I’m just very stoked and think it is the first of many so I’m just very excited to start playing again.
What was it like the first time you took cash as a pro?
The first time taking cash was a little weird. I remember there were quite a few women playing in that tournament and I wasn’t going to cash. But, someone marked their score wrong and that bumped me up into the cash. I remember thinking, whoa, I didn’t expect this to happen at all. This is great! But it also taught me a valuable lesion to make sure you get your score correct. I would be mad at myself if I ever did that.
Who did you look up to when you were first starting out?
There were a lot, but the main one was my best friend, Landon Knight. He has been a local pro in the Dallas area for as long as I can remember. He pretty much taught me everything I know. He is a really good swing coach and he can tell what needs to be fixed. He loves sports, which is something that goes hand in hand. I based a lot of my game off of him when I was learning. I think that helped me grow a lot into the player I am. I was constantly trying to be one of the boys. There is a gap there, but it made me a little more competitive. Which is nice because I’m definitely not competitive. That shocks some people to hear that. Everything I do, I like doing really well. But, I do it for me. I don’t feel like I want to be the best to beat people, but I want to be the best for me.
What are some of your goals for next year?
I like to take my disc golf events as they come up. I like to take things day by day. I think that winning an Elite Pro Tour event would be nice. It’s always a goal. Winning is great. It’s nice to see your hard work pay off. Even if it doesn’t happen, I’m very excited to be playing next season.
Last year was my first full tour and at the end I was a little tired. But, now looking back I know what to expect a little more as far as traveling and tournaments. I think next year will be a lot smoother for me. Luke (Samson) and I will be starting our season in January in Waco to get some early practice in for the Pro Tour. And after that we’ll hit a bunch of B-tiers and A-tiers until the Pro Tour starts. It’s fun to hit smaller courses and areas that we don’t hit on the tour.
What do you picture disc golf looking like in 5 years (Growth, competition, contracts, etc.)?
I think everything will keep growing at a steady pace, just because of the past few years and the growth we’ve seen continuously. I think a big thing that will change is there might be different tours and maybe different age divisions that cater to younger kids. I think most sports have little leagues and now that parents have a better opinion about disc golf, I think they will encourage them to try disc golf. I think that will help organizations like UPlay disc golf grow even more.
What Infinite molds do you throw?
One of the discs that replaced the Destroyer for me, which I never thought would happen, is the Emperor. I’ve thrown that more times this year than any other disc. And of course my Anubis, which is my tour series disc for the year. Recently I got some new discs from Infinite so I’m trying a bunch of discs, and I’ve been messing around with the Tomb and that’s a really fun putter to throw. It’s very different, but it’s very fun. It’s been fun to try other molds, too.
Do you have any shout-outs or people you would like to acknowledge?
The biggest shout out is to my sponsors, Thought Space and Infinite. I’m super stoked to be on their teams and beyond excited to be playing with their discs next year. To all my fans who are constantly supporting me on the road and off the road, I super-appreciate every one of you!
For your Quick Tip Tuesday this week, Infinite team member Eric Oakleyshares his expertise on throwing more accurate hyzer lines.
First, each disc has a different level of stability, which means each is going to react to a hyzer line differently. Understanding your discs in this way will help you better craft the hyzer line you are looking for.
Second, practice releasing each disc on different height angles. This will give you a lot more unique and particular lines to help you achieve the shot you are looking for.
And Third, get out into the field and test your own discs! How beat in your discs are can also determine their hyzer flight path. Let us know in the YouTube video comments which disc you like to release on hyzer the most!
See the full tip by watching the video on our channel –>
Even in here first year as a touring pro in America in 2022, Lykke finished in the top-20 at several Elite Series events, including a 13th-place finish at the Portland open. Last year (2023) she had several top-10 finishes, including Worlds, US Women’s Disc Golf Championship, and Idlewild.
back home was a big deal for me. So was playing good at Worlds last year,” she said. “But, the win in Vegas was definitely the biggest one so far.”
seriously. “We are trying to be strict with our diet, and especially with eating enough protein every day,” she said. “I love to work out and we try to do it as much as we can. It gets a bit more difficult when we’re on tour, but we take our ab-workout seriously and go to the gym when we can.”
Not only does Lykke expect to see her game improve, she expects big things from the sport of disc golf. She expects the growth to continue into the future. “I hope it’s way bigger that it is right now,” she said. “We might see a separate MPO and FPO tour as the field grows bigger every year.”
DRB: How many hours per week do you practice? Can you elaborate on your practice routine?
SeanFace: Any west coast stops this year? I’ll be at the OTB Open and LVC 
Myle: Are you ever thought about an ‘is that good’ video where you give amateur your new signature disc and they tell is it good?
Cobra: Are there any out of production discs you wish you could bag but can’t justify because they’re hard to replace/expensive?
When did you turn pro?
What do you picture disc golf looking like in 5 years (Growth, competition, contracts, etc.)?
Do you have any shout-outs or people you would like to acknowledge?
When did you turn pro? 
How did you get into disc golf?
What are some of your goals for next year?
How did you discover disc golf?
Who did you look up to when you were first starting out? 
