In golf, what is par?
VerifiedAnswer: The standard number of strokes expected to complete a hole or course.
Explanation:
In golf, par represents the expected number of strokes that a skilled golfer should take to complete a specific hole or an entire golf course. Think of it as the benchmark or target score that players aim to achieve based on the difficulty and length of each hole.
Golf holes are typically classified into three main categories based on their par values. A par-3 hole is the shortest, where players are expected to reach the green and sink the ball in three strokes. These holes usually range from 100 to 250 yards. Par-4 holes are medium-length holes, typically between 250 to 470 yards, where golfers should complete the hole in four strokes. Par-5 holes are the longest, often exceeding 470 yards, and require five strokes to complete according to the expected standard.
The par system helps golfers understand how they're performing relative to the course's intended difficulty. When a golfer completes a hole in exactly the par number of strokes, they've achieved par for that hole. Scoring one stroke under par is called a "birdie," while scoring one stroke over par is called a "bogey." More impressive achievements include an "eagle" (two strokes under par) or the rare "hole-in-one" on a par-3 hole.
For an entire golf course, the total par is calculated by adding up the par values of all 18 holes. Most standard golf courses have a total par between 70 and 72 strokes. This total par serves as the baseline for determining a golfer's overall performance for the round. Professional golfers often aim to finish several strokes under par, while recreational players might be satisfied with achieving par or staying close to it.
