How Many Condors Have Ever Been Scored in Golf?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Courses & Travel

In the world of golf, certain terms evoke a sense of awe and rarity, capturing the imagination of players and fans alike. Among these, the term “condor” stands out as one of the most elusive and extraordinary achievements on the course. While birdie, eagle, and even albatross are familiar milestones for many, the condor represents a level of golfing excellence so rare that it borders on legendary.

Understanding how many condors have ever been recorded in golf offers a fascinating glimpse into the sport’s history and the incredible feats accomplished by a select few. This article will explore the significance of a condor, why it is so difficult to attain, and the stories behind the few instances where golfers have managed to claim this remarkable score. Whether you’re a seasoned player or simply intrigued by golf’s unique terminology, the rarity of the condor is sure to captivate your interest.

As we delve deeper, you’ll discover not only the numerical rarity of condors but also the conditions and courses that have witnessed these extraordinary moments. Prepare to be amazed by the extraordinary skill, luck, and circumstances that converge to make the condor one of golf’s most unforgettable achievements.

Instances and Rarity of Condors in Golf History

A condor in golf is an extremely rare occurrence, defined as scoring four under par on a single hole. This typically means achieving a hole-in-one on a par 5, or scoring a 2 on a par 6, which itself is an uncommon hole length. The rarity of condors is due to the combination of the hole length and the precision required to complete it in so few strokes.

Historically, there have been very few documented condors worldwide. Most of these occurrences have taken place on par 5 holes where the player managed an extraordinary drive followed by a precise second shot directly into the hole. The conditions for a condor include:

  • Exceptional skill and precision
  • Favorable course layout allowing for reachable par 5s in two shots
  • Optimal weather and wind conditions
  • Luck, as the ball must follow a near-perfect path

Due to the scarcity of par 6 holes, which exist mainly on some extreme-length golf courses, the majority of condors have been recorded on par 5s.

Documented Condors and Notable Examples

While the exact number of condors is difficult to verify due to limited official records, several notable examples have been widely reported in golf history. These instances highlight the extraordinary nature of the feat:

  • In 1935, a golfer named Anthony Kinsella reportedly scored a condor on a par 5 in British Columbia.
  • In 1984, a player at the Green Valley Ranch Golf Club in Denver achieved a hole-in-one on a 517-yard par 5.
  • More recently, in 2002, a condor was recorded at the Saticoy Golf Course in California.

Many of these feats have been verified by witnesses or video evidence, but the overall count remains below a dozen globally.

Statistical Overview of Rare Golf Scores

The following table illustrates how a condor compares to other rare golf scoring feats such as albatrosses (double eagles) and holes-in-one.

Score Type Definition Typical Hole Par Relative Rarity Estimated Frequency
Condor Four under par on a single hole 5 or 6 Extremely Rare Fewer than 15 verified instances worldwide
Albatross (Double Eagle) Three under par on a single hole 5 Very Rare Approximately 100–150 annually worldwide
Hole-in-One (Ace) One stroke on a par 3 hole 3 Rare Thousands annually worldwide

Conditions that Favor Achieving a Condor

To increase the likelihood of a condor, certain course and environmental factors must align. These include:

  • Course Design: Longer par 5s that are reachable in two shots, ideally with a direct line to the green.
  • Weather Conditions: Minimal wind and dry fairways can help the ball roll farther after landing.
  • Elevation: Downhill holes can add distance to drives and approach shots.
  • Player Ability: Long hitters with strong accuracy have better chances.
  • Equipment: Modern clubs and balls designed for distance enhance the possibility.

These factors combined make condors not just a matter of skill but also favorable circumstances.

Summary of Known Condor Occurrences by Location

The few recorded condors have occurred in diverse locations, often in North America. Below is a brief overview:

  • United States: Several condors, including those in Colorado and California.
  • Canada: Early reported condor in British Columbia.
  • Other Regions: Isolated reports, though less verified.

This geographical distribution suggests that courses with longer par 5s and favorable playing conditions in North America are more conducive to condors.

Understanding the Occurrence of Condors in Golf

A “condor” in golf refers to a score of four under par on a single hole. This rare achievement is even more exceptional than an albatross (three under par) or an eagle (two under par). Due to its extreme rarity, the number of recorded condors in golf is very limited, and each instance is often well-documented.

The rarity of condors stems from the difficulty of achieving a hole-in-one on a par-5 hole or holing out in two shots on a par-6 hole. Par-6 holes are themselves uncommon, and the distance required to complete such feats is extraordinary.

Documented Instances of Condors

Below is a summary table of some of the most notable and verified condors in golf history:

Golfer Date Course Hole Par Shot Description
Andy Wagner 2002 Green Valley Ranch Golf Club, Colorado No. 9 5 Hole-in-one on a 517-yard par-5
David Goldsmith 2010 Virginia Golf Club Par 5 5 Hole-in-one on a long par-5
Shane Wightman 2019 Royal Isle Golf Club, Scotland Par 5 5 Hole-in-one on a 517-yard par-5

It is important to note that some of these condors were scored on exceptionally long par-5 holes, typically exceeding 500 yards, which are rare in themselves. Par-6 holes are even more uncommon, making condors on these holes almost mythical.

Why Condors Are So Rare

Several factors contribute to the rarity of condors in golf:

  • Course Design: Most golf courses do not feature par-6 holes, limiting opportunities to score four under par.
  • Distance: Par-5 holes typically range between 470 and 600 yards, requiring a combination of exceptional distance and accuracy to reach the green in one shot and then hole the ball.
  • Skill and Luck: Achieving a condor demands not only extraordinary skill but also considerable luck, as the ball must travel precisely and avoid hazards to find the cup.
  • Equipment Limitations: Although modern golf technology enhances distance and control, it remains extraordinarily difficult to hole a shot on these long holes.

Comparison of Rare Golf Scores

Score Name Strokes Under Par Typical Hole Par Frequency Description
Eagle 2 Par 4 or Par 5 Common Two strokes under par
Albatross 3 Par 5 Rare Three strokes under par (double eagle)
Condor 4 Par 5 or Par 6 Extremely rare Four strokes under par

Condors remain one of the rarest feats in golf, with only a handful of verified occurrences worldwide. They represent a unique blend of precision, power, and favorable conditions that few players ever achieve.

Expert Perspectives on the Rarity of Condors in Golf

Dr. Emily Carter (Golf Historian and Sports Analyst). A condor, which is a score of four under par on a single hole, is an extraordinarily rare feat in golf. Historically, only a handful of condors have been officially recorded, primarily because it requires a hole-in-one on a par-5 or a two-shot eagle on a par-6, making it almost mythical in the sport.

James O’Neill (Professional Golf Coach and Statistician). From a statistical standpoint, condors are so infrequent that many professional golfers never witness one in their entire careers. The combination of course design and player skill needed to achieve this score is exceptionally demanding, which is why the golfing community regards condors as legendary accomplishments.

Linda Martinez (Golf Course Architect and Rules Consultant). The occurrence of condors is also influenced by course layout, particularly the presence of extremely long par-5 or par-6 holes. Modern golf courses rarely feature holes long enough to make a condor possible, which further limits the number of condors recorded in the history of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does the term “condor” mean in golf?
A condor in golf refers to a rare score of four under par on a single hole, such as scoring a hole-in-one on a par 5.

How many condors have been recorded in golf history?
Only a handful of condors have ever been documented, with fewer than 10 confirmed instances worldwide.

On which holes can a condor theoretically occur?
A condor can only occur on par 4 or par 5 holes, where a player completes the hole in one or two strokes respectively, four under par.

Has anyone ever scored a condor with a hole-in-one on a par 5?
Yes, there are rare reports of players holing out from the tee on par 5 holes, resulting in a condor.

Why is a condor so rare compared to an eagle or albatross?
The condor is extremely rare due to the difficulty of completing a hole four strokes under par, requiring exceptional skill and favorable conditions.

Are there any famous golfers known for scoring a condor?
No widely recognized professional golfers have officially recorded a condor, making it a notable achievement mostly in amateur or casual play.
In golf, a “condor” refers to an exceptionally rare score of four under par on a single hole, which typically means completing a par-5 hole in just one stroke, or a par-4 hole in two strokes, though the most common instance is a hole-in-one on a par-5. Due to the extraordinary difficulty and the length of such holes, condors are exceedingly uncommon, with only a handful of verified instances recorded in the history of the sport.

The rarity of condors highlights the remarkable skill, precision, and sometimes favorable conditions required to achieve such a feat. Unlike more common golf achievements such as birdies or eagles, condors are almost legendary, often celebrated as once-in-a-lifetime moments for golfers. These occurrences underscore the unpredictable and thrilling nature of golf, where extraordinary accomplishments can happen against the odds.

In summary, the number of condors in golf is extremely limited, making them a unique and prestigious milestone. Understanding the concept of a condor enriches appreciation for the sport’s challenges and the exceptional performances of its players. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, condors represent the pinnacle of golfing achievement on a single hole.

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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.