If you have just started playing golf, you will hear the word bogey quite a few times along with other golf terms. In this blog, we will explain what a bogey is, how it relates to par and what it means when you score one. Without any further ado, let’s dive into details.
Link Between Par and Bogey Score
Each golf hole has a par number, which is the number of strokes (hits) a good golfer is expected to take.
Most holes are par 3, par 4, or par 5.
A bogey means you took one more stroke than par. So, for instance, a par 3 hole should finish in 3 strokes, but if you take 4 strokes to complete, that is a bogey.
Is Bogey Considered a Bad Score?
A bogey, whether considered a bad score, depends on the golfer’s skill. If you are a professional player, it might be disappointing because you are aiming for a par or better. However, for beginners, or a casual player, bogey is very common and can even be considered a good score.
Types of Bogey Scores
A bogey is one stroke over par. Sometimes, a golfer takes even more strokes than that:
- A double bogey means you took two strokes more than par.
- A triple bogey means three strokes over par.
- A quadruple bogey (or more) means four or more strokes over par.
These scores aren’t great, but they happen, especially if the hole is hard or the golfer is still learning.
What is Bogey Golf?
Speaking of bogeys, there is an interesting and popular term that emerges from it – bogey golf.
Bogey golf is a term for golfers who are good but not experts. These players usually score around 85–95 on an 18-hole course. For them, making bogeys is normal and part of their strategy.
The idea of bogey golf is to focus on consistency instead of always trying to make par. It helps golfers set realistic goals and enjoy the game without feeling too much pressure.
Tips to Avoid Bogeys in Golf
Here are some tips to avoid bogeys and improving your overall golf score:
- Instead of always trying for long shots, focus on placing the ball in safe spots
- Practice your short game by working on chipping, pitching and bunker shots
- Read the course properly and aim away from water, sand or thick rough
- Stretching and warming up improves focus and reduces mistakes
- Lastly, focus on consistency without aiming for perfection. Accept that bogeys happen
Final Word
In golf, bogeys are a normal part of the game, especially for beginners and casual players. It means that you take one stroke more than par on a hole. For instance, a 3-par hole is completed in 4 strokes.
However, bogeys do not always mean a bad score depending on the golfer’s skill and experience.
Learn more about bogeys and improve your game with professional coaches at Longwood Golf Club. Call us at (281) 213-2400 to book your slot.