There are a lot of things disc golfers have to understand in order to play disc golf. In addition to the rules and game play, players have to understand techniques, equipment, terminology, and flight numbers. Just learning the different discs, their flight ratings and plastic types can overwhelm a newbie. Let’s focus on one of the important tools of disc golf, the mini marker disc. If you’re wondering about the purpose of mini disc golf discs, here’s an overview.
Mini Disc Golf Discs Are Used to Mark a Lie
The main purpose of mini disc, or ‘mini’, is to mark the position of the disc after it comes to rest. In disc golf, every time a player throws a disc, his position on the course changes. He then has to throw another disc (or the same disc, depending on what disc is needed) to get nearer to the hole. The nearest spot to the hole from which he can throw is where the previous disc landed. This spot is called the lie.
The mini disc marks the lie. If a player doesn’t have a mini disc, he has to leave his previously thrown disc on the spot it landed. His lie then becomes the 20cm x 30cm rectangle behind the disc. If the player chooses to use their mini to mark the like, he places the mini in front of the disc (toward the basket) and picks up the disc he just threw. Then the lie becomes the rectangle behind the mini. By using a mini, the lie is 8-9 inches closer to the basket.
Do Players Have to Mark Their Lie?
The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) states that players are not required to mark their lie with a mini every time, with a few exceptions.
If the disc goes out of bounds, the player must mark their lie with a mini. If the place where the most recent throw landed has to be moved due to a rule, the player must also mark their lie with a mini. Apart from these two exceptions, players are not required to mark their lie, and it might be possible to play a tournament round without a mini marker disc. However, mini markers are inexpensive and I recommend at least carrying one, especially if you are playing in tournaments.
Are There Benefits to Using Mini Markers?
As mentioned, by marking your lie with a mini you get to be a tiny bit closer to the basket. Additionally, some players like the routine of placing a mini and picking up their discs. That gives players a few extra seconds to reset and get ready for the next throw or putt. Some players even write a mantra or words to help them focus and get in the right mindset.
By using a mini instead of your last thrown disc to mark your like, there is also less in the way visually as you plant your foot. That is something I prefer, but it would be easy enough to practice using a full-size disc and get used to seeing that as you plant.
What Markers Does the PDGA Allow?
The PDGA has established standards for the mini discs permitted in professional games. According to the association’s technical standards guide, the mini disc must be within 7 to 15 cm in diameter. That is the only rule.
You can craft the disc from various materials, such as wood or metal, as long as it conforms to the specified diameter. Players can even use custom made mini disc golf markers, the PDGA won’t have any problem with that.
FAQ’s about Mini Marker Discs
Q. What are mini disc golf discs used for?
A. They are used to mark the player’s lie.
Q. Do players have to mark their lie?
A. Only on two occasions does the PDGA require players to mark their lie. 1. When the disc flies out of bounds or a rule requires the player to change their position. 2. If a player is going to use the same disc they previously threw.
Q. Are there benefits to using mini disc golf discs?
A. The usage of mini disc golf markers comes down to preference. Some players find it advantageous, others don’t.
Q. What markers does the PDGA allow?
A. As long as the marker falls within the specified size range of 7 to 15 cm in diameter and is less than 2 cm in height, it is permitted. Mini marker discs can be crafted from various materials, such as plastic, glass, metal, foam, wood, rubber, recycled materials, and more.
Shop Discount Prices on Mini Marker Discs
Check out our selection of mini discs available here.
