Written by
Casey Gameson
Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a complete beginner, it is important that you understand the golf scoring terms. From birdie and eagle to condor and albatross, knowing what each of these terms means can improve your confidence and enhance your experience. Whether you hope to one day compete on the PGA tour or just want to enjoy a round with your friends, this knowledge will make your experience on the greens even more enjoyable.
Keep reading to learn the lingo of golf scores.
Par
Par is the standard number of strokes a proficient golfer, otherwise known as a scratch golfer, takes to complete a hole on a golf course. As each individual golf hole is a different length, the number of strokes can vary. The majority of holes are par 3, par 4 or par 5. This means that a scratch golfer should be able to complete the hole in three, four or five strokes. If you were to achieve a par score on a hole, that would mean you had played it exactly as the course designer intended. That’s why so many professional golfers strive to meet or exceed the par of golf courses!
At Bryn Meadows, we have a par 71 golf course. With no two holes the same, our course has been designed to offer a different challenge at every tee. For scratch golfers, the aim is to complete our golf course in 71 strokes. However, this can be a challenge for even the most experienced of golfers!
Birdie
Birdie is when a golfer completes a hole in one stroke less than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 5 hole in just four strokes, that would be called a birdie. This is considered a huge accomplishment for professional golfers, and demonstrates extreme precision.
Eagle
Eagle is when a golfer completes a hole in two strokes less than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 5 hole in just three strokes, that would be called an eagle. This is rarely achieved by experienced golfers, and is often a cause for celebration.
Albatross (Double eagle)
Albatross, otherwise known as a double eagle, is when a golfer completes a hole in three strokes less than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 5 hole in just two strokes, that would be called an albatross. Widely considered an exceptional feat for golfers, this is something that few manage to achieve during their careers.
Condor
Condor is when a golfer completes a hole in four strokes less than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 5 hole in only one stroke, that would be called a condor. However, it is almost impossible to achieve, with only six condor scores having ever been recorded.
Ace (Hole in one)
An ace, otherwise known as a hole in one, is when a golfer completes a hole in one stroke. This is widely regarded as the pinnacle of achievement in the world of golf. However, it is also incredibly rare! In fact, the odds of an average golfer scoring a hole in one are estimated at a staggering 12,500 to 1.
Bogey
A bogey is when a golfer completes a hole in one stroke more than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 3 hole in four strokes, that would be called a bogey. This is a common occurrence for golfers, and is something that even professional golfers struggle with.
A double bogey is when a golfer completes a hole in two strokes more than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 3 hole in five strokes, that would be called a double bogey score. Double bogeys are something that every golfer comes across, especially when up against a particularly challenging tee shot.
A triple bogey is when a golfer completes a hole in three strokes more than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 3 hole in six strokes, that would be called a triple bogey. While less commonly seen in professional golf tournaments, they are an essential part of every golfer’s journey.
A quadruple bogey is when a golfer completes a hole in four strokes more than the designated par. For example, if you were to complete a par 3 hole in seven strokes, that would be called a quadruple bogey. For beginners, such a score is perfectly acceptable and all part of the learning process. After all, even the best golfers have to start somewhere.
Do you want to know more?
These are all of the terms for golf scores that you will come across on the greens. So, next time you hear that someone has scored an eagle, albatross, condor or ace, make sure you congratulate them on this achievement!
If you would like to know more about golf scoring, get in touch. Our dedicated team is available to provide you with further insights. For those aspiring to elevate their golf skills, we even offer golf lessons led by our PGA professionals. With our ongoing support, you will soon be a more skilled and confident golfer.
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