Golf is all about precision, patience, and strategy. Whether you are a novice player or a skilled one, you need to know about golf scoring and the par concept for you to improve your golf-playing skills.
In this article, we will explain what is par in golf, how par is computed, and why par is significant when playing golf.
So, let's get started.
What is Par in Golf?
Par is the terminology adopted by golfers for the fixed number of shots by skilled players required to complete one hole. Par is set by the course designers by the length, difficulty, and nature of each hole.
Par for the complete round is the total sum of all the par for each individual hole, typically par 70 through par 72.
The Role of Par in Golf Scoring
Par is the measure against which the playing ability of a player is assessed. A player is "over par," "under par," or "even par" when their score is described relative to the par for the hole.
Different Par Values in Golf
Golf holes can also have different par values, one from the next by length and level of difficulty. There generally are three par classifications:
Par 3 Holes
- Typically 100 to 250 yards long.
- Expected to be completed in three shots.
- Players aim for the ball to reach the green from the start and finish the round in two shots.
Par 4 Holes
- Usually 251 - 450 yards.
- Expected to complete the work in four swings.
- Typically requires one shot from the tee, one shot from the approach, and two putts.
Par 5 Holes
- Generally 451 to over 600+ yards
- Expected to be completed in five shots.
- Players often need three shots to reach the putting surface.
Some courses also have Par 6 holes, though these are not common and only typically appear on professional-level courses.
Understanding Golf Scores Relative to Par
Golf scores are provided relative to par. This is the interpretation for different scores:
Scores Below Par (Good Scores)
- Birdie (-1): One shot under par for the hole.
- Eagle (-2): To finish two shots under par.
- Albatross/Double Eagle (-3): Finishing three shots under par (a very uncommon achievement).
- Condor (-4): Finishing the round four shots under par (practically impossible).
Scores Above Par (Bad Scores)
- Bogey (+1): To complete one shot over par for the hole.
- Double Bogey (+2): Two shots over par.
- Triple Bogey (+3): Three shots over par
- Quadruple Bogey (+4) and worse: Worse even than being four over par, far from desired.
Even Par (E) Score
If a player shoots the exact par for the course, the player has shot "even par." This is an excellent score for the everyday player.
How Par Affects Course Design
Golf course designers set par values by applying the length, hazards, and complexity of a hole. These can include:
- Length: Longer holes generally possess larger par values.
- Hazards: The bunkers, water hazards, and uneven surfaces make the course more difficult.
- Green Complexity: Slope and gradient determine the level of complexity for the green and the required putts.
Why Understanding Par is Important for Golfers
Par is likely the most fundamental concept for golfers, and beginners oftentimes fail to grasp its value beyond the mere number printed on the scorecard.
Here's why this is noteworthy:
Benchmark for Performance
Par serves as the standard against which your playing level is measured. To shoot par or under for a hole is good playing, and over par is where you need improvement.
Strategic Course Administration
Understanding par helps you strategize each shot more effectively. For example, when you are playing the par 5, you can lay up instead of taking the risk shot, keeping in mind you can afford spare shots.
Handicap Calculation
Your golf handicap, your gauge for ability, is relative to your playing against par. Monitoring your scores against par over the long term helps you acknowledge trends in your game and enhance your capacity for shooting lower.
Setting Realistic Goals
If you're beginning, playing par on each hole will not necessarily happen. However, by using par as your measure, you can set realistic expectations such as playing one over par for each hole before trying for par level.
Course Design and Strategy
Golf courses are designed around par, from the setting of the holes through hazards and overall challenges. An awareness of the influence par has over the design can help you devise a sounder-playing strategy.
Conclusion
Understanding what is a par in golf is essential for improving your game. It provides a standard for measuring performance, helps develop strategies, and contributes to the overall gameplay experience. Whether you are playing casually or competitively, keeping track of par will help you become a better golfer over time.
So, next time you set out onto the course, pay close attention to the par for each hole and aim for those birdies and eagles!
FAQs
Can a hole have a par greater than 5?
Yes, some par 6 and even par 7 holes can be observed, though not many. These holes are extremely long, generally over 650 yards, and are for even the best players.
What happens when you shoot under par?
Scoring below par is considered excellent. A birdie (1 under par), an eagle (2 under par), or an albatross (3 under par) indicates strong play and is celebrated in golf. Achieving these scores requires precision and skill.
Is par the universal for all golfers?
Yes, par is the fixed figure for each hole regardless of the player's level. However, amateur players generally shoot over par, while professionals shoot par or under par regularly.
What is a "par save" in golf?
A "par save" is when you complete a difficult shot not over par. For example, when you're stuck in the bunker but you save par, you say you achieved a great par save.
Can a player ever win a golf tournament shooting under par?
Yes, depending upon the level of challenge and the circumstances, you can actually succeed in the tournament playing over par. If the course is tough for everyone, the player with the lowest score relative to par is the one who will succeed.