Looking for a Par definition is completely normal, especially if you are new to the sport of golf. The term is basically everywhere in the golf circle, so having complete knowledge about it allows you to approach the game better. So, what exactly does par imply in golf? Let us first define par.
By definition, “Par” is the number of strokes needed to complete a hole in a golf course. Each hole on a course is assigned a par rating. In ourgolf course in Doral, for instance, par varies across 18 holes.
Par may also indicate hole length indirectly. Typically, longer holes require more strokes to complete, thus par in these holes is higher compared to shorter holes.
How does par work in golf?
Par is a criterion that golfers strive towards. These numbers are not randomly given to each hole, but are mainly based on the number of strokes a golf expert would require to complete them.
Is a par good in golf?
Par distinguishes between excellent and exceptional golfers. Simply put, if you maintain a par score in each hole, then you can consider yourself having a competitive golf score and an expert at that.
How many strokes in a par?
This changes depending on the hole. As previously stated, length may have a role in determining how many strokes are required to accomplish a hole. A par-3 hole, for example, is called a short hole since it requires just one (1) stroke to reach the green and two (2) more strokes to finish. If a hole is long enough, it may be designated as a par-4 or par-5.
What is the deal with par-70, par-71 and par-72?
No, it does not imply a particularly deep pit. As previously stated, each hole has its unique par. A normal golf course consists of 18 holes. So, if you sum up all 18 par numbers, you may end up with a total of par 69 to 74. A regulation golf course has a par of 72 which is equivalent to four (4) par-3, ten (10) par-4 and four (4) par-5.
Par and scoring relationship
Par may also be used as a performance measure for golfers. Basically, you have “parred the hole” if you completed it with the number strokes equal to its par (i.e. four (4) strokes in a par-4 hole). This is sometimes referred to as “level-par” or “even-par.”
Then there’s a slew of scoring words relating to scoring below and over par that we’ve previously discussed:
What does “par for the course” mean?
You’ve undoubtedly heard the phrase “par for the course.” It’s essentially an idiomatic word developed from golf, with the same meaning as “usual,” “expected,” or “common.” Par is the expected/normal number of strokes in golf. As a result, the term might be used to describe a comparable circumstance, occurrence, or action.