We were able to catch up with David Wiggins, Jr. on the heels of his trip to the annual Big D in the Desert. Big D is the premier distance competition each year, and generally the spot where world distance records are set. This year David broke not one, but two world records. His 577′ pull broke the record for his age group (David is 12), and it also set the record for 17 year olds. Pretty impressive…

Was your trip to Big D in the Desert your first real distance competition?

No, but it was my first competition where it was only about distance. I have thrown in distance events at 4 World Championships and a couple NC Flying Disc Championships.

What surprised you the most about the event?

What surprised me the most was that so many people from all over the world were there.

Could you tell a difference in the conditions versus other places you’ve thrown for big distance?

Yes. The discs I threw acted a lot more stable. It was harder to make a good throw, but when I did it went farther.

Describe the record setting throws. Discs, conditions, footwork, etc…

I had to throw higher than I am used to throwing with more anhyzer. The disc I threw was a 171 gm “Carolina Blue” Pro Wraith. I had been throwing good throws with that one for some time. My style is to throw more into the crosswind than some other throwers. I was able to do that on that throw and it worked out well. The wind was pretty good for that throw, but not the best of the weekend. I threw my 360 release. The dirt of the lake bed was a great surface with lots of grip. I got a good run up, and that throw felt very smooth.

Did you throw farther than you thought you could, or did you leave thinking you may could have gotten more?

Before the event I told my Dad I wanted to throw 580 feet. I threw 577. I think I could throw it a little farther, maybe 600 feet. I’m hoping to throw that next year.

Of the other contestants, who impressed you the most?

It was awesome to see all the great throwers that were there. They were all really nice. I got to spend a lot of time with Avery Jenkins who was really supportive. He could really throw it a long ways!

Did the other Innova team members show you some love while you were there?

All the Innova Team Members and also the Innova Staff were real nice. They made me feel like a part of a family. Avery Jenkins gave me a special disc that I have on the wall in my room. Mark Molnar let me borrow some of his discs and made sure I had good opportunities to throw. Suzette Simmons also helped me out with some discs. Everyone else was nice and was helpful too in lots of ways.

What advice do you have for others who want to work on pure distance?

It really helps to learn a 360. First work on getting it smooth with your whole body behind it, then work on increasing the speed of your run-up while keeping it smooth. A lot of practice will get you ready for different conditions. I had to throw less stable discs at “Big D” than I usually throw for distance.

I’d also like to thank Jonathan and Zeb at Innova East for all their help and support.

Thanks Dave. Best of luck throughout the season.