What Is a Good Golf Score?

If you've ever watched golf on TV, you've doubtless heard the commentators refer to the term "par," which is generally what determines what is a good golf score. But what exactly does par mean, and how does it affect your game?

For golfers, par is more than just a number-it's the standard by which all scores are measured. Whether you're a weekend golfer or a seasoned pro, understanding par is key to knowing how well you're playing.

In this blog post, we'll explore what par is and how it shapes a "good" golf score. We'll also look at how different players view a good score and offer some tips on how to improve your own game. Let's get started!

What Exactly Does Par Mean?

The term "par" wasn't always part of golf. It only became commonly used around the turn of the 20th century, and it had a unique origin. Before "par" entered the golf world, golfers actually used the term "bogey" to describe the target or ideal score.

Bogey was the standard by which golfers measured their performance, but it wasn't just for professional players-it was also used by recreational golfers. It's funny to think that nowadays!

Around the early 1900s, the meanings of "par" and "bogey" started to diverge. "Par" came to represent the score that expert golfers should aim for, while "bogey" became the standard score for amateur or recreational players.

By 1911, the United States Golf Association (USGA) officially defined "par" as "perfect play without flukes and under ordinary weather conditions, always allowing two strokes on each putting green." Since then, par has been the gold standard for measuring golf scores, representing the expected score for scratch golfers.

Par's late introduction is why older golf tournaments don't reference it. Before 1911, the concept of a "par 72" course or players being "under-par" or "over-par" wasn't yet common in golf lexicon. With its formal definition, "par" became the standard that golf scores are measured against, signaling a significant shift in the way golf is played and understood.

Understanding Other Golf Scores

While par is the benchmark in golf, there are several other scoring terms that describe how a golfer's score compares to par. These terms reflect the range of possible outcomes on each hole or across an entire round of golf.

For example, a birdie means you completed a hole in one stroke fewer than par. For example, on a par-4 hole, a score of 3 would be a birdie. Birdies are great for golfers because they indicate above-average performance.

An eagle is even better, signifying that you scored two strokes under par. On a par-5 hole, scoring 3 would be an eagle. Eagles are less common and usually result from a combination of skill and a bit of luck.

A bogey, then, is the opposite of a birdie; it's one stroke over par. For instance, a score of 5 on a par-4 hole would be a bogey. While not ideal, bogeys are a common score, especially among amateur golfers.

A double bogey means you're two strokes over par. So on a par-3 hole, a score of 5 would be a double bogey. Double bogeys can be discouraging, but they often happen when a golfer has a bad shot or gets into a difficult position.

An albatross, also known as a double eagle, is a rare achievement in golf. It's three strokes under par. To get an albatross on a par-5 hole, you'd need to score a 2. These are rare and often involve a long shot that finds its target perfectly.

How to Lower Your Golf Score

In golf, scores can range widely based on a player's skill level and experience. Beginners might shoot well over 100 for 18 holes, while seasoned amateurs might hover around 90. Professional golfers often score in the 70s or lower.

If you're aiming to improve your game and see those numbers drop, you can follow these practical tips to help lower your golf score.

Practice Regularly

The key to getting better at golf is consistent practice. Whether it's at the driving range or on the course, practicing different aspects of your game can lead to steady improvement.

The more you play, the more you'll understand your golf swing, how different golf clubs perform, and how to handle various situations. Try to aim for at least a couple of practice sessions each week to keep your skills sharp.

Work on Your Short Game

Golf isn't just about long drives, even though that's undoubtedly a fun aspect of the game. The short game, which includes chipping, pitching, and putting, can make or break your score. You should always spend time practicing putting from various distances and angles.

Work on chipping from around the green, focusing on accuracy and control. These small strokes can have a big impact on your overall score, and honing your short game will give you more confidence during a round.

Improve Your Driving Accuracy

Sure, long drives can be impressive, but accuracy is more important. Hitting the fairway consistently can save you from penalties and tough lies.

Work on your driving technique to ensure you're hitting straight, even if it means sacrificing a bit of distance. Practicing with alignment aids or getting feedback from a coach can help you improve your driving accuracy.

Take Lessons from a Pro

Even the best golfers can benefit from professional instruction. A golf coach can identify areas for improvement, correct technical flaws, and offer personalized advice.

Consider taking lessons to refine your swing, improve your posture, or learn new techniques. A pro's guidance can fast-track your progress and help you avoid developing bad habits.

Taking golf lessons here at Piqua Country Club is a sure-fire way to lower your scores on the golf course.