We’ve explored the basics of golf and its scoring system, let’s dive deeper into some common terms you’ll frequently hear on the course: par, birdie, bogey, eagle, and double bogey. Understanding these will not only help you keep score but also enhance your appreciation of the game. What is par, birdie, bogey, eagle, and double bogey?
What is Par?
In golf, “par” represents the number of strokes an expert golfer is expected to take to complete a hole or a round. Each hole on a golf course is assigned a par value, typically ranging from 3 to 5. The total par for an 18-hole course usually adds up to between 70 and 72. For example, a par-4 hole anticipates that a skilled golfer will take two strokes to reach the green and two putts to hole out.
Birdie: One Under Par
A “birdie” occurs when you complete a hole one stroke under its par. For instance, if you finish a par-4 hole in three strokes, you’ve made a birdie. The term originated in the early 20th century in the United States, signifying a score better than par.
Bogey: One Over Par
A “bogey” means completing a hole one stroke over par. So, if you take five strokes on a par-4 hole, that’s a bogey. Interestingly, the term “bogey” has its roots in British golf, where it initially referred to the number of strokes a good player might take on a hole. Over time, especially in the U.S., it came to represent a score of one over par.
Eagle: Two Under Par
An “eagle” is when you finish a hole two strokes under par. For example, completing a par-5 hole in three strokes counts as an eagle. Eagles are less common than birdies and are celebrated achievements in a round.
Double Bogey: Two Over Par
A “double bogey” occurs when you complete a hole two strokes over par. For instance, taking six strokes on a par-4 hole results in a double bogey. While not ideal, even professional golfers encounter double bogeys from time to time.
Visualizing the Terms
To help you grasp these concepts, here’s a simple table summarizing the terms:
| Term | Strokes Relative to Par | Example on Par-4 Hole |
| Eagle | -2 | 2 strokes |
| Birdie | -1 | 3 strokes |
| Par | 0 | 4 strokes |
| Bogey | +1 | 5 strokes |
| Double Bogey | +2 | 6 strokes |
Tips for Beginners
- Aim for Consistency: While achieving birdies and eagles is exciting, focus on consistent play and understanding your strengths and weaknesses.
- Stay Positive: Bogeys and double bogeys are part of the learning process. Use them as opportunities to identify areas for improvement.
- Practice Putting: Since many strokes are taken on the green, improving your putting can significantly impact your score.
Understanding these terms will enhance your golfing experience and provide clear goals as you develop your skills. Remember, every golfer started as a beginner, and with practice and patience, you’ll see progress.
Final Thought
Understanding golf terms like Par, Birdie, Bogey, Eagle, and Double Bogey is essential for improving your game and appreciating the sport’s scoring system. Whether you’re aiming for a birdie or trying to avoid a double bogey, knowing these terms helps you track your progress and set realistic goals on the course. Mastering these basics can enhance your strategy, boost your confidence, and make the game even more enjoyable.
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore the main formats of playing golf, such as stroke play and match play.
