The story of the Frisbee, one of the most beloved recreational items in the world, has a fascinating and heartwarming twist involving Walter Frederick Morrison, the original inventor, and Ed Headrick, who played a significant role in popularizing and evolving the Frisbee into the iconic toy and sports equipment it is today.
The Invention by Walter Frederick Morrison
Walter Frederick Morrison initially invented the flying disc in the late 1940s. Inspired by the fun of tossing cake pans back and forth on the beach, Morrison developed a plastic version that could fly further and more accurately. He called it the “Pluto Platter,” and in 1957, he sold the design to the toy company Wham-O, which later rebranded it as the “Frisbee.”
Ed Headrick’s Contributions
Ed Headrick, often referred to as the “Father of Disc Sports,” joined Wham-O in the 1960s and made significant improvements to the Frisbee’s design. He refined its aerodynamics, enhancing its stability and flight performance. Headrick’s innovations helped the Frisbee gain immense popularity as both a recreational toy and a sports tool. He also founded the sport of disc golf and established the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA).
A Unique Memorial for Ed Headrick
In 2002, Ed Headrick passed away, leaving behind a legacy of joy and innovation in the world of disc sports. In accordance with his wishes, his ashes were incorporated into a special line of Frisbees. These unique discs were distributed to his friends and family and were also sold to the public. The proceeds from the sales of these commemorative Frisbees were donated to charity, continuing Headrick’s legacy of giving and community spirit.
A Lasting Tribute
The incorporation of Ed Headrick’s ashes into Frisbees is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the creation and promotion of disc sports. This unique memorial not only honors his contributions but also allows his spirit to continue soaring through the air with every throw of a Frisbee.