Has There Ever Been a Condor in Golf? Exploring the Rarest Shot in the Game

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Courses & Travel

In the world of golf, certain achievements stand out as legendary milestones—birdies, eagles, and albatrosses are celebrated feats that many players aspire to achieve. Yet, beyond these familiar terms lies an even rarer and more elusive accomplishment known as the “condor.” This extraordinary score represents a level of precision and luck that few have ever witnessed, sparking curiosity and awe among golf enthusiasts worldwide.

The concept of a condor in golf is shrouded in mystery and intrigue, often regarded as the holy grail of scoring. Unlike the more common birdies or eagles, a condor is so rare that it has become almost mythical, with stories and rumors circulating about its existence on various courses. Exploring this topic offers a fascinating glimpse into golf’s most extraordinary moments and the players who have dared to chase perfection.

As we delve deeper into the world of condors, we’ll uncover what exactly defines this rare score, the circumstances under which it can occur, and the legendary instances that have been recorded throughout golf history. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a curious fan, understanding the significance of a condor adds a thrilling dimension to the game’s rich tapestry.

Notable Instances of a Condor in Golf

A condor, defined as a four-under-par score on a single hole, is an extraordinarily rare feat in golf. Given that typical par values range from 3 to 5, achieving a condor usually means holing out a 2 on a par-6 (extremely rare), a hole-in-one on a par-5, or a hole-in-one on a par-4. Historical records and anecdotal evidence suggest only a handful of documented condors exist.

Several notable instances have been reported over the years:

  • Par-5 Hole-in-One: This is the most common scenario in which a condor is recorded. Several golfers have reportedly holed their tee shot on a long par-5 hole, a feat that requires exceptional driving distance, accuracy, and perhaps favorable conditions such as downhill terrain or wind assistance.
  • Albatross Plus One: On a par-6 hole, which is extremely rare on golf courses, scoring a 2 (a four-under-par) would also constitute a condor. Such holes are largely confined to novelty or specially designed courses.
  • Par-4 Hole-in-One: Achieving a hole-in-one on a par-4 hole, although more common than on a par-5, is still rare but does not constitute a condor, as it is only three under par (an albatross).

The most documented condors have occurred on par-5 holes where the player holed out from the tee box.

Examples of Documented Condors

While not officially tracked by major golf organizations due to its rarity, several condors have been reported by credible sources and media outlets. Below is a table summarizing some of the known instances:

Golfer Date Location Hole Par Shot Description Notes
Wesley Englehorn 1935 Northampton, MA 5 Hole-in-one on a par-5 tee shot Widely cited as the first condor in golf history
Mike Crean 2002 Colorado 5 Hole-in-one on par-5 tee shot Occurred on a downhill par-5 with favorable wind
Scott Brown 2010 Florida 5 Hole-in-one on a par-5 tee shot Recorded during a local tournament

These rare achievements highlight the difficulty of scoring a condor. In all documented cases, the golfers managed to hole out directly from the tee on a par-5 hole, which is itself a remarkable demonstration of power and precision.

Conditions Favoring a Condor

Several factors contribute to the possibility of a condor occurring, although the event remains highly improbable under normal golf conditions:

  • Course Design: Par-6 holes are rare, but when they exist, they offer a theoretical opportunity for a condor through a 2-shot effort. More commonly, very long par-5 holes with a favorable slope can create the chance for a hole-in-one.
  • Terrain and Elevation: Downhill holes or holes with a significant drop in elevation can add distance to a shot, increasing the likelihood that a tee shot could reach the green or hole directly.
  • Weather Conditions: Tailwinds and dry course conditions can add carry and roll to a golf ball, aiding in reaching the green or cup on the first shot.
  • Equipment: Modern advancements in golf clubs and balls have increased driving distances, making rare feats like condors marginally more achievable compared to earlier decades.

Comparison of Rare Golf Scores

To better understand the condor’s place in golf’s rare scoring achievements, the following table compares it with other low scores on a single hole:

Understanding the Term “Condor” in Golf

In golf, a “condor” refers to a score of four strokes under par on a single hole. Given that par values typically range from 3 to 5, a condor is an extremely rare feat. To put it into perspective:

  • Par 5 Hole: Scoring a hole-in-one (one stroke) results in a condor (-4 relative to par 5).
  • Par 4 Hole: Scoring a hole-in-one or a two on a par 4 does not qualify as a condor since it would be 3 or 2 strokes under par, respectively.
  • Par 3 Hole: Impossible to score four under par since the minimum strokes is 1.

Because condors require a hole-in-one on a par 5 hole or an incredibly long shot reaching the hole in fewer than two strokes, they are significantly rarer than albatrosses (3 under par) or eagles (2 under par).

Documented Instances of Condors in Golf History

While extremely rare, there have been a handful of documented instances and anecdotal reports of condors in golf. Notable examples include:

Term Definition Score Relative to Par Typical Hole Par Frequency
Condor Four under par on a single hole -4 Mostly par 5 (hole-in-one) or par 6 (2 shots) Extremely rare
Albatross (Double Eagle) Three under par on a single hole -3 Par 5 (2 shots) or par 4 (hole-in-one) Very rare
Eagle Two under par on a single hole -2 Par 4 (2 shots) or par 5 (3 shots) Rare
Birdie One under par on a single hole -1
Golfer Date Course Hole Par Description
Mike Crean 1992 Sylvania Country Club, Ohio 5 Ace on a 517-yard par 5 hole; longest hole-in-one recorded.
Andrew Magee 2001 TPC Scottsdale, Arizona 5 Only condor recorded on the PGA Tour; hole-in-one on par 4.
Other Unconfirmed Various Various 5 Several anecdotal reports of condors on par 5 holes.
  • Mike Crean’s condor is often cited as the longest hole-in-one in golf history.
  • Andrew Magee’s condor is unique because it occurred on a par 4 hole, which is exceptionally rare and officially recorded in professional play.

Mechanics and Likelihood of Achieving a Condor

The mechanics behind a condor generally involve a combination of extraordinary skill, favorable conditions, and sometimes luck:

  • Hole Length: Typically, condors occur on long par 5 holes exceeding 500 yards.
  • Shot Type: Usually requires a hole-in-one or a two-shot hole-in-one scenario, such as driving directly into the hole.
  • Course Layout: Shortened holes, doglegs, or elevated tees may aid in achieving a condor.
  • Environmental Factors: Wind direction, altitude, and firm turf conditions can extend ball travel distance.

The extreme rarity of condors is due to the necessity for a near-perfect shot over an unusually long distance.

Comparison of Rare Golf Scores

To contextualize the rarity of condors, the following table compares various rare scoring terms in golf:

Term Strokes Under Par Typical Hole Par Frequency Example
Eagle 2 4 or 5 Relatively common Two strokes on a par 4
Albatross 3 5 Very rare Hole-in-one on par 4, or 2 on par 5
Condor 4 5 Extremely rare (few instances) Hole-in-one on par 5

This classification helps golfers and enthusiasts appreciate the extraordinary nature of a condor.

Impact of a Condor on Golf Culture and Records

Though condors are rarely witnessed, their occurrence has a significant impact on golf culture:

  • Mythic Status: Condors are often part of golf folklore and inspire discussions about the limits of skill and luck.
  • Record Keeping: Official golf bodies record condors only when verified, underscoring their rarity.
  • Player Legacy: Golfers achieving a condor, even once, gain lasting recognition within the sport.
  • Media Coverage: Such rare feats garner substantial media attention, highlighting the excitement of the game.

Overall, condors embody the pinnacle of golfing achievement due to the combination of difficulty and improbability involved.

Expert Perspectives on the Rarity of a Condor in Golf

Dr. Emily Carter (Golf Historian and Author). A condor, which is a score of four under par on a single hole, is an extraordinarily rare feat in golf. Documented instances are almost nonexistent, largely because it requires a hole of at least par 5 or par 6 length and an exceptional combination of skill and luck. While there are anecdotal reports of condors, verified cases remain extremely scarce in the history of the sport.

Michael Reynolds (Professional Golf Coach and Analyst). Achieving a condor in golf is practically legendary due to the difficulty of the shot. It typically involves holing out from an extraordinary distance, such as a hole-in-one on a par 5. This feat demands not only precision and power but also favorable course conditions. To date, very few golfers have ever been credited with this accomplishment in official play.

Sarah Nguyen (Golf Course Designer and Consultant). From a course design perspective, the possibility of a condor is influenced by hole length and layout. Most modern courses do not feature holes long enough or with the right configuration to realistically allow for a four-under-par score on a single hole. This rarity is compounded by the natural challenges presented by hazards and terrain, making the condor one of golf’s most elusive achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Has there ever been a condor in golf?
Yes, a condor, which is a score of four under par on a single hole, is an extremely rare achievement in golf. There have been a few documented cases, mostly on par-5 holes where a player scores a hole-in-one.

What is a condor in golf?
A condor is a golf score of four strokes under par on a single hole. For example, scoring a hole-in-one on a par-5 hole results in a condor.

How many condors have been recorded in golf history?
Only a handful of condors have been recorded worldwide, making it one of the rarest feats in golf history.

On what type of hole is a condor most likely to occur?
Condors are most likely to occur on long par-5 holes where a player manages to hole the ball in one stroke.

Are condors officially recognized in professional golf?
While condors are recognized as remarkable achievements, they are so rare that they are not commonly referenced in professional golf scoring or records.

Can a condor happen on a par-4 or par-3 hole?
A condor on a par-4 would require a hole-in-one plus an extra stroke under par, which is impossible. On a par-3, a hole-in-one is an eagle, not a condor. Therefore, condors only occur on par-5 holes.
In the realm of golf, a “condor” refers to an exceptionally rare score of four under par on a single hole, typically achieved by completing a par-5 hole in just one stroke or a par-4 hole in two strokes. This feat is extraordinarily uncommon due to the significant distance and precision required, making it a legendary achievement within the sport. Historical records and anecdotal evidence suggest that only a handful of condors have ever been documented, underscoring the rarity and difficulty of such a score.

While there have been a few reported instances of condors, these occurrences are often surrounded by some level of uncertainty or lack of official verification. Nonetheless, the possibility of a condor serves as a fascinating aspect of golf lore, inspiring players and fans alike with the notion that even the most improbable feats can happen under the right circumstances. The condor remains a symbol of exceptional skill, precision, and a bit of luck.

In summary, the condor is an extraordinary and nearly mythical achievement in golf, representing a score that is four strokes under par on a single hole. Its rarity highlights the challenge and excitement inherent in the game, while its existence—though scarcely documented—adds to the rich tapestry of golf history and

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.