Don Shinn: The Inspiring Disc Golf Legacy Of Mr. Mamba

Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to start a new passion? The story of Don Shinn disc golf legend proves it’s never too late to not only begin but to become an icon. Many players seek inspiration to improve their game or maintain their love for the sport, but few stories are as powerful as that of a man who picked up his first disc at an age when most have long since retired from any athletic activity.

Don Shinn, famously known as “Mr. Mamba,” was a groundbreaking disc golf player who started the sport at 90 years old, set a world distance record at 100, and became a beloved, inspirational figure for his unwavering dedication, minimalist philosophy, and incredible longevity. This guide unpacks the remarkable life and routine of Don Shinn, drawing from extensive analysis of his journey, achievements, and the legacy he left behind. We’ll explore how a former Judo master transformed into a disc golf world record holder, providing a blueprint for passion and persistence at any age.

Key Facts

A Late Start to a Legendary Career: Don Shinn began playing disc golf at the remarkable age of 90, demonstrating that it’s never too late to embrace a new challenge.

World Record Holder at 100: Shortly after his 100th birthday, he set a World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) record with a 189-foot throw, an achievement reported by sources like UPI.

The “One Disc” Philosophy: He earned his nickname “Mr. Mamba” by exclusively using a single 150-gram Innova Mamba disc, simplifying his game to focus on mastery and consistency.

Incredible Daily Dedication: Shinn’s routine included playing 36 to 54 holes of disc golf every single day, a testament to his passion and physical endurance.

A Lasting Legacy: His impact is immortalized through the “Don Shinn Memorial” tournament and collectible “Mr. Mamba” discs, cementing his status as a community icon.

Contents show

Who Was Don Shinn? An Introduction to a Disc Golf Legend

Don Shinn, known as “Mr. Mamba,” was an inspirational disc golfer who began playing at age 90, set a world record at 100, and became a beloved figure in the sport for his dedication and passion. What does it take to not only start a new sport at 90 years old but to become a world-record holder in it? For Don Shinn, the answer was a combination of relentless positivity, a disciplined routine, and an unwavering love for the game. He wasn’t just a player; he was a centenarian phenomenon who defied every conventional notion about age and athletic ability. His story became a cornerstone of disc golf lore, showcasing the power of an active lifestyle. Recognized by the World Flying Disc Federation for his incredible achievements, his journey is a powerful lesson in longevity and spirit.

“He emphasized continuous practice for both physical and mental strength.”

This philosophy was the engine behind his daily rounds and his ability to keep improving well into his later years, making him a true icon in the don shinn disc golf community.

From Judo Master to Disc Golfer: Shinn’s Unexpected Journey

Born in Korea in 1920, Don Shinn was a Judo instructor who moved to Southern California and discovered disc golf at age 90 after observing players at Waller Park, seeking a new activity after back problems ended his martial arts practice. His path to becoming a disc golf legend was anything but direct. It was a journey shaped by discipline, physical setbacks, and a chance discovery that would redefine his life.

A former Judo instructor, Shinn’s athletic background found a new outlet in disc golf after back problems forced him to stop practicing martial arts.

Birth in Korea and Judo Career: Born in Kongju, Korea, in 1920, Don Shinn dedicated much of his early life to martial arts, eventually becoming a respected Judo instructor.
Move to the United States: In 1974, he moved to Chicago where he directed a large Judo academy. Later, in 1984, he relocated to the sunnier climate of Southern California.
Health Challenges: Persistent back problems eventually forced Shinn to cease his martial arts practice, leaving a void for physical activity in his life.
Discovery at Waller Park: At the age of 90, while at Waller Park in Santa Maria, he became intrigued by a group of people playing disc golf. He approached them, asked to be taught, and a new passion was instantly ignited.

The Origin of “Mr. Mamba”: The One-Disc Philosophy

Don Shinn earned the nickname “Mr. Mamba” because he exclusively played with a single disc: a lightweight, 150-gram Innova Mamba. While most disc golfers carry bags filled with drivers, mid-ranges, and putters for every situation, Shinn adopted a minimalist approach that became his trademark. His choice wasn’t just a quirk; it was a practical philosophy. By carrying only one disc, he avoided the strain of a heavy bag and focused all his energy on mastering a single, trusted tool.

The Disc: An Innova Mamba, known for being an understable distance driver that is easier for players with slower arm speeds to throw far.
The Weight: A lightweight 150-gram model, making it easier to handle and throw for distance without excessive strain.
The Philosophy: His reasoning was simple: he didn’t want to get tired carrying a heavy bag, allowing him to play more holes with more energy.

Pro Tip: Shinn’s one-disc strategy highlights a key principle: consistency and mastery of a single tool can be more effective than carrying a full bag of options.

“He exclusively used a 150-gram Innova Mamba disc, earning him his famous nickname.”

The Don Shinn Disc Golf Routine: A Blueprint for Longevity

Don Shinn’s incredible fitness was attributed to a consistent daily routine that included playing 36-54 holes of disc golf, daily push-ups, a healthful diet, and abstaining from smoking and alcohol. His endurance was not accidental; it was the direct result of a disciplined lifestyle he maintained every day. This regimen allowed him to play more disc golf in a single day at age 100 than most people half his age play in a week. Shinn played up to 54 holes in a day. How does his dedication to daily practice inspire your own approach to fitness and hobbies?

His daily schedule was a masterclass in healthy living and dedication:

Activity	Frequency / Amount
Disc Golf	Every morning (36-54 holes)
Strength Training	15 to 25 push-ups daily
Diet	Small meals, fruits, vegetables
Lifestyle Choices	Never smoked or consumed alcohol

This combination of intense but low-impact cardio, functional strength training, and clean living was the foundation of his remarkable vitality.

A World Record at 100: Shinn’s Crowning Achievement

Shortly after his 100th birthday, Don Shinn set a World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) record for men over 100 by throwing a disc 189 feet, capping a career of record-setting throws in multiple age divisions. Imagine the dedication: Shinn wasn’t just playing at 100, he was still breaking records. This throw was the culmination of a decade of dedication that saw him consistently setting the bar for senior disc golf. His record-setting journey, confirmed by authoritative sources like the PDGA and reported in outlets like UPI, is a testament to his sustained excellence.

His progression of record-breaking was systematic and astonishing:

He first established records in the 85 and over age category.
Upon aging up, he set a new record for the 90 and over division.
He continued his dominance by setting the record for players 95 and over.
At age 100, he set the official WFDF record with a 189-foot throw.

This final record cemented his place in sports history, not just within the don shinn disc golf community but as an inspiration for athletes everywhere.

The “Mr. Mamba” Legacy: How Don Shinn Inspires the Community

Don Shinn’s legacy is honored through the “Don Shinn Memorial” tournament and collectible “Mr. Mamba” Innova Star Mamba discs, cementing his status as an inspirational icon within the disc golf community. His impact extended far beyond his personal achievements. He was a beloved fixture in the Southern California disc golf scene, known for his friendly demeanor and boundless enthusiasm. His story continues to inspire players to push their own limits and appreciate the lifelong joy the sport can offer.

The tangible elements of his enduring legacy include:

The Don Shinn Memorial: A PDGA-sanctioned tournament was established in his honor, ensuring his name and spirit continue to be a part of the competitive scene.
Commemorative Discs: Innova released limited edition “Mr. Mamba” Don Shinn Star Mamba discs. These have become highly sought-after collector’s items, a physical tribute to the man and his famous one-disc philosophy.
Community Icon: As a proud member of the Murrieta Rattlers Disc Golf Club and a daily player at his home course, Mountain Pride, he was a cherished and inspirational presence for countless local players.

To channel a piece of the “Mr. Mamba” philosophy, focusing on a consistent and reliable driver like the Innova Star Mamba can help simplify your game and master your throw.

FAQs About Don Shinn & Disc Golf

How old was Don Shinn when he started playing disc golf?

Don Shinn began playing disc golf at the remarkable age of 90 after observing players at a local park. He was looking for a new way to stay active after back problems prevented him from continuing his Judo practice, and he quickly fell in love with the sport, playing it daily for the rest of his life.

What specific disc was Don Shinn known for?

Don Shinn was famous for exclusively using one disc: a 150-gram Innova Star Mamba, which earned him the nickname “Mr. Mamba.” This lightweight, understable distance driver was the perfect tool for his smooth throwing style, allowing him to achieve impressive distance without the strain of heavier, more overstable discs.

Is there a tournament in honor of Don Shinn?

Yes, the “Don Shinn Memorial” is a disc golf tournament established to honor his legacy in the sport. Hosted by Flight Collective, this PDGA-sanctioned event celebrates his life and incredible contributions to the disc golf community, ensuring his inspirational story continues to be told.

What was Don Shinn’s PDGA number?

Don Shinn’s official Professional Disc Golf Association player number was #96483. He became a member in 2017 and competed in several events, achieving eight career wins in his age-protected divisions and earning the respect of competitors across the sport.

What is the “35 rule” in disc golf?

The “35 rule” is a general guideline in disc golf for choosing a driver: take your maximum throwing distance in feet and divide it by 35 to find the approximate disc speed you should use for optimal performance. This is a common rule of thumb in the community to help players match their arm speed to the right equipment and is not a rule specific to Don Shinn’s personal strategy.

Final Summary: The Inspiring Legacy of Don “Mr. Mamba” Shinn

The story of don shinn disc golf is far more than a collection of impressive statistics and records; it’s a profound lesson in the power of passion, discipline, and a positive mindset. From picking up a disc at 90 to setting world records at 100, Don “Mr. Mamba” Shinn redefined what is possible in the later stages of life. His legacy serves as a permanent source of inspiration for anyone who has ever felt they were “too old” to start something new.

He left an indelible mark on the sport by:

Proving Age is Just a Number: By starting at 90 and setting records at 100, he shattered conventional limits.
Championing Simplicity & Consistency: With his one-disc philosophy and unwavering daily routine, he showed that mastery trumps complexity.
Left a Lasting Community Impact: Honored through memorials and cherished by fellow players, his spirit continues to elevate the disc golf community.

Don Shinn’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to find a new passion. Share his legacy to inspire someone in your own community.

Last update on 2025-07-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Don Shinn: The Inspiring Disc Golf Legacy of Mr. Mamba