A disc golf putter called “The Mesa,” manufactured in Grand Junction and designed by a local teacher, has received authorization for sanctioned play from the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) as of August 31. Bob Fenske, a computer science and robotics teacher at Caprock Academy and owner of Flohtohn, the two-person company producing the disc, hopes this recognition will enhance the putter's reputation. According to Fenske, the approval offers "a blessing from the PDGA," giving the disc value beyond just tournament eligibility.
Fenske, seen throwing one of his discs at Westlake Park, designed The Mesa as an abrupt, flat-top disc with an over-stable flight path. When thrown by a typical right-hander, it starts straight but fades left at the end of its trajectory. Fenske prefers to use it for approaches, ideally within 70 feet of the hole, by tossing it at a slight angle.
This putter is Fenske’s first successful disc model, developed since he began designing a disc specifically for 3D-printed production in April. The manufacturing process presented unique challenges, requiring narrow angles and materials different from those used in the injection molding techniques common in most disc-making. Over several months, Fenske refined his design through dozens of prototypes. He noted that the resulting disc is distinct, stating that even the closest comparable discs have significantly different characteristics.
Securing PDGA approval was not initially Fenske’s primary goal, and the process required meeting precise technical criteria. After developing a finished product, Fenske submitted payment to the PDGA and mailed three copies of The Mesa to a designated testing professional. This professional evaluated the discs for specific measurement standards, weight, and material qualities, including a flexibility test to ensure the disc would not cause injury if it struck someone. Within days, Fenske was informed that his submission had passed, making The Mesa an officially approved product for buyers.
Flohtohn, Fenske’s company, was established in 2017. Initially, the business focused on making snowboards, with aspirations for other products like surfboards and skateboards, which he envisioned as "floating on" various surfaces. However, high production costs led Fenske to step back for a few years. The disc golf putter represents a return to this theme, as Fenske considers that a properly thrown disc "floats on air." His initial motivation was simple: "I thought it would be cool to be able to just pull something off of my 3D printer and go play with it," he said, describing it as a personal challenge.
To date, Flohtohn has produced approximately 50 copies of The Mesa, which are available for sale in local stores. Each disc requires about 14 hours to 3D print. The company also produces another disc called “The Monument,” which is currently in a testing phase and has not yet been submitted for PDGA approval. Fenske is also developing a third prototype, named “Mount Garfield,” which will feature a distinct shape compared to his current offerings.
Fenske’s long-term vision includes creating a "masterpiece" disc, which he plans to name “The Junction.” This naming convention, including The Mesa, The Monument, Mount Garfield, and The Junction, is inspired by a supposed local legend known as the Grand Valley curse. This legend suggests that newcomers and newborns must collect dirt from the area’s iconic mountains and the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison rivers to prevent being drawn back to the valley if they ever leave. Fenske hopes that by naming his discs after these four landmarks, they will achieve widespread recognition, saying, "instead of breaking the curse it’ll blow up and go worldwide." He believes this will happen once all four named discs are successfully created.
