If you’re new to the game of golf, you may be wondering what par is and why every hole has a different one. The truth is, par is one of the most important parts of golf as it gives players a goal to chase on each hole. Once you understand par and how it works, the game makes a lot more sense and becomes a lot more fun.
In this article, we break down what par is, how it shapes the game of golf and why it gives players something to aim for on each hole.
What does par mean in golf?
Par is the number of shots a golfer is expected to take to complete a hole. It’s the number of strokes it should take to putt the ball and complete the hole. The par will be either 3, 4 or 5 and is determined by the length of the hole and its difficulty.
For example, par 3s tend to be short in length but may demand precision to navigate obstacles such as water and bunkers. A par-4 hole tests your strategy and consistency. You’ll need a strong distance off the tee and landing on the fairway is a must. Finally, par 5 holes are the longest courses that require you to be on the green in no more than three strokes.
Every golf course uses par to set expectations and measure performance. It’s the foundation of the scoring system, helping golfers compare rounds fairly, no matter where they play. Here at Whitefields Golf Club, our course welcomes all abilities, featuring a mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s to keep it interesting and test players’ skills.
While distance plays a big role in setting the par, elevation changes, bunkers, trees and wind changes all shape the par of every hole on the course.
Scoring with par
Par isn’t just your target – it shapes your entire score. If you finish a par 5 in five strokes, then you finish the hole on par. Which means you’ve played exactly as expected. If you complete it in four strokes, then you’ll get a birdie (one under par).
Two strokes less, and that’s an eagle (two under par), three less and you have an albatross (three under par). However, if you take six strokes, this is known as a bogey. While seven strokes on a par 5 would earn you a double bogey.
How par shapes every hole
The par of a hole tells players what to expect, and it also helps you adjust your game. A par 3 will make you take a more precise approach, while a par 5 lets you know you need to plan ahead. Par can help measure your skill and progress, and also help you manage and tweak your strategy.
Play a round at Whitefields Golf Course
Located in the heart of the Warwickshire countryside, Whitefields Golf Club offers 18 challenging holes to test the skills of novice golfers through to professional players. Check out our hole flyovers to help you plan your visit. Get in touch to book now.