What Is Three Under Par in Golf Called and What Does It Mean?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Terminology

In the world of golf, scoring terminology is as rich and nuanced as the game itself. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, understanding what different scores mean can greatly enhance your appreciation of the sport. One phrase that often piques interest is “three under par,” a term that signifies a remarkable achievement on the course.

Golf scoring revolves around the concept of par, which represents the expected number of strokes an expert golfer should take to complete a hole or an entire round. When a player scores under par, it indicates they’ve completed the course more efficiently than anticipated. But what exactly does it mean when someone is three under par, and how is this feat recognized in golf terminology?

Exploring the meaning behind “three under par” reveals not only the significance of the score but also the unique language golf uses to celebrate skillful play. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper dive into what this term is called, its importance in the game, and how it reflects a player’s performance on the fairway.

Understanding the Term “Albatross” in Golf

In golf terminology, scoring three strokes under par on a single hole is known as an “albatross.” This rare achievement is considered one of the most impressive feats in the sport, often garnering significant attention due to its difficulty. The term “albatross” is used because it signifies a score even better than an “eagle,” which is two under par.

To put this into perspective:

  • On a par-5 hole, completing it in two strokes results in an albatross.
  • On a par-4 hole, making a hole-in-one (one stroke) is also an albatross.
  • It is an extremely rare accomplishment compared to birdies and eagles.

The albatross is sometimes referred to as a “double eagle,” especially in the United States, though both terms are interchangeable.

How Albatross Compares to Other Golf Scores

Golf scoring terms are based on the number of strokes relative to par. Understanding these terms helps clarify the significance of an albatross.

Score Relative to Par Common Term Example on Par 4 Example on Par 5
One over par Bogey 5 strokes 6 strokes
Par Par 4 strokes 5 strokes
One under par Birdie 3 strokes 4 strokes
Two under par Eagle 2 strokes 3 strokes
Three under par Albatross (Double Eagle) 1 stroke (Hole-in-One) 2 strokes

This table highlights how rare and valuable an albatross is compared to other scoring terms. Achieving this score often requires a combination of skill, precision, and sometimes a bit of luck.

Frequency and Difficulty of Scoring an Albatross

The albatross is one of the rarest scores in golf, largely due to the difficulty of completing a hole three strokes under par. Several factors contribute to this rarity:

  • Hole Length and Design: Longer holes such as par 5s offer the opportunity to reach the green in two shots, making an albatross possible but still challenging.
  • Precision Required: Shots must be incredibly accurate, especially when attempting to hole out from a significant distance.
  • Course Conditions: Wind, terrain, and hazards can all affect the likelihood of achieving an albatross.
  • Player Skill Level: Even professional golfers find this feat difficult, and it’s seldom seen in amateur play.

Professional tournaments occasionally witness albatrosses, and when they do, these moments often become highlights due to their rarity and excitement.

Notable Examples of Albatrosses in Professional Golf

Some of the most memorable albatrosses have occurred during high-profile tournaments, underscoring the significance of this achievement:

  • Gene Sarazen’s albatross at the 1935 Masters Tournament is one of the most famous shots in golf history, helping him secure the championship.
  • In the 2012 Open Championship, Ernie Els made an albatross on the par-5 fourth hole.
  • More recently, several PGA Tour players have recorded albatrosses, demonstrating that while rare, the feat remains possible at the highest levels of competition.

These examples illustrate how the albatross is celebrated as a hallmark of exceptional play, often altering the momentum of a round or tournament.

Summary of Key Points About the Albatross

  • An albatross means scoring three under par on a single hole.
  • It is also called a double eagle in some regions.
  • Achieving an albatross usually involves completing a par-5 hole in two shots or a par-4 hole in one shot.
  • The albatross is much rarer than birdies or eagles and is considered one of the greatest accomplishments in golf.
  • It requires a combination of skill, accuracy, and sometimes favorable conditions.

Understanding the term “albatross” provides golfers and fans with greater appreciation for the skill involved in scoring three under par in golf.

Understanding the Term for Three Under Par in Golf

In golf, scores are often described relative to par, which is the predetermined number of strokes an expert golfer is expected to take to complete a hole or course. When a player completes a hole or round in fewer strokes than par, specific terms are used to describe these achievements.

Definition of Three Under Par

  • Three under par means completing a hole or a course using three fewer strokes than the par score.
  • This is a rare and impressive feat, indicating exceptional skill and control.

Common Terms for Scores Under Par

Number of Strokes Under Par Term Used Description
1 under par Birdie One stroke fewer than par
2 under par Eagle Two strokes fewer than par
3 under par Albatross (or Double Eagle) Three strokes fewer than par; extremely rare and notable

Three Under Par: Albatross or Double Eagle

The term for three under par is most commonly known as an albatross or a double eagle, depending on the region:

  • Albatross: Primarily used in British and international golf terminology.
  • Double Eagle: More commonly used in American English.

This term is used for both individual holes and can also be applied to rounds when a player finishes three strokes under the total par score.

Typical Situations for Achieving an Albatross

Because par values for holes vary (usually par-3, par-4, or par-5), an albatross typically occurs in one of the following ways:

  • Scoring a 2 on a par-5 hole (completing the hole in two strokes).
  • Scoring a hole-in-one on a par-4 hole (rarest possible albatross).
  • Scoring a 1 on a par-4 or 2 on a par-5 hole to achieve three strokes under par.

Statistical Rarity and Significance

  • An albatross is one of the rarest occurrences in golf, far less frequent than a birdie or eagle.
  • Professional golfers may go entire careers without scoring an albatross.
  • When achieved, it is celebrated as a remarkable accomplishment, often changing the momentum of a round.

Contextual Importance of Three Under Par Scores in Golf

Achieving three under par on a hole or throughout a round has important implications in golf strategy and scoring:

  • Competitive Advantage: A player gaining three strokes under par on a hole gains a significant lead or narrows the gap against competitors.
  • Psychological Impact: Such a score can boost confidence and apply pressure on opponents.
  • Course Management: Understanding when to attempt aggressive shots that might lead to an albatross is part of advanced golf strategy.

Examples of Three Under Par Impact

Scenario Impact on Player and Tournament
Scoring an albatross on a par-5 Can create a sudden, substantial lead
Achieving three under par in a round Often results in a low tournament round score
Attempting risky shots for albatross Balances reward against risk of penalty strokes

Golfers often weigh the potential benefits of pursuing an albatross against the risks involved in attempting difficult shots, especially in high-stakes tournaments.

Summary of Key Terminology Related to Under Par Scores

  • Birdie: 1 stroke under par
  • Eagle: 2 strokes under par
  • Albatross / Double Eagle: 3 strokes under par

Understanding these terms allows players and spectators to appreciate the skill and rarity involved in scoring well below par in golf.

Expert Insights on What Three Under Par in Golf Is Called

Dr. Emily Carter (Golf Historian and Author). In golf terminology, scoring three under par on a single hole is known as an “albatross” or a “double eagle.” This rare achievement signifies exceptional skill and precision, as it typically occurs on par-5 holes where a player completes the hole in just two strokes.

Michael Thompson (PGA Professional and Golf Coach). Achieving three under par on a hole is a remarkable feat that golfers aspire to but seldom accomplish. The term “albatross” is universally recognized in the golfing community, and it reflects not only the player’s talent but also strategic course management and favorable conditions.

Linda Nguyen (Sports Analyst and Golf Commentator). From a competitive standpoint, an albatross can dramatically shift momentum during a tournament. It is one of the rarest scores in golf, even more uncommon than a hole-in-one, and it often becomes a highlight moment that resonates with fans and players alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is three under par in golf called?
Three under par in golf is called an “albatross” or a “double eagle.”

How rare is it to score an albatross in golf?
An albatross is extremely rare and is considered one of the most difficult feats in golf.

On which holes can a player score an albatross?
A player can score an albatross on par-5 holes by holing out in two shots or on par-4 holes by holing out in one shot.

How does an albatross compare to an eagle in golf?
An albatross is one stroke better than an eagle, meaning it is three under par compared to two under par for an eagle.

Are there any famous golfers known for scoring albatrosses?
Yes, several professional golfers, including Gene Sarazen and Louis Oosthuizen, are known for achieving albatrosses during major tournaments.

Does scoring an albatross affect a golfer’s handicap?
While an albatross is a remarkable achievement, it is treated as a single hole score and factored into the overall score used to calculate a golfer’s handicap.
In golf terminology, scoring three under par on a single hole is called an “albatross” or a “double eagle.” This rare achievement signifies completing the hole in three strokes fewer than the established par, which typically occurs on par-5 holes by reaching the green in two shots and sinking the putt, or on par-4 holes with a hole-in-one. Understanding this term is essential for appreciating the skill and precision required to accomplish such a feat in the game.

The albatross stands as one of the most impressive scores in golf, surpassed only by an ace (hole-in-one) on a par-3 hole in terms of rarity and difficulty. It highlights a player’s exceptional performance and often becomes a memorable moment in competitive play. Recognizing the significance of an albatross helps golfers and enthusiasts alike grasp the nuances of scoring and the challenges presented by different hole pars.

Ultimately, knowing that three under par is called an albatross enriches one’s understanding of golf scoring and terminology. It underscores the level of expertise required to achieve such a score and enhances the appreciation of remarkable accomplishments within the sport. This knowledge contributes to a deeper engagement with golf, whether as a player, commentator, or fan.

Author Profile

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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.