What Is Par In Disc Golf? A Complete Explanation
In disc golf, a par is the number of throws a player is expected to need to complete a hole. A hole in disc golf is played similarly to a hole in traditional golf, with the player starting from a tee area and throwing their disc toward a target, which is called a “basket” in disc golf. The par for a hole is determined by its length and other factors, such as the presence of obstacles or hazards.
For example, a short, straightforward hole with no obstacles might have a par of 3, meaning that a player who completes the hole in three throws or fewer is considered to have played the hole “par” or “even.” A longer, more challenging hole with obstacles might have a par of 4 or 5, requiring the player to make more throws to complete the hole. In general, the goal in disc golf is to complete each hole with the fewest number of throws possible.
History Of The Word Par
The word “par“ is derived from the Latin word “par“ meaning “equal“. It first appeared in English in the late 14th century and was used to refer to equality in matters of money, such as in a financial transaction. It was also used in gambling to refer to a stake that was equal to one‘s opponents. In the 18th century, the word “par“ began to be used in golf, where it referred to the number of strokes taken by a golfer to complete a hole. This usage has remained the same to the present day. In the 19th century, “par“ began to be used figuratively to refer to an expected level of performance or achievement. It has also been used to refer to a “par score“ in tests or exams, which indicates the average performance of the group. In the 20th century, “par“ has also been used to refer to a number of other things, such as a standard of comparison, or a normal condition or level.
Who decides what par is on a hole?
In most cases, the course designer will decide the par for a disc golf course. They will consider a variety of factors such as the length of the holes, the obstacles present on the course, and the overall difficulty of the course. Once the course is complete, the par can be adjusted by the local disc golf club or the tournament director if they feel the need to do so.
Tips For Shooting Par
Scoring a par in disc golf does not have to be exclusive to experienced players. To shoot par it is important to understand ‘YOUR’ game. Do not try to take shots that are out of your comfort zone. To shoot par just take your time and try to think about your shot selection. Ask yourself “is this the best shot for this situation?” If you don’t feel comfortable with a shot, is the risk worth the reward. Some tips below can help with shooting par on the course.
- Choose the Right Disc: Select a disc that will give you the best chance to hit the target. Generally, a midrange disc or a fairway driver will provide the best accuracy. Also, be sure to choose one that fits your skill level.
- Have a Plan: Before you throw, have a plan for hitting the target. Visualize the route that the disc should take and plan for the desired result.
- Have Good Form: Make sure your form is consistent and repeatable. Keep your shoulders square to the target and focus on your balance, posture, and grip.
- Have a Follow Through: After you release the disc, follow through with your throwing motion until your arm is extended. This will help ensure that you get the most power and accuracy in your throw.
- Practice: As with any sport, practice makes perfect. Spend some time on the course to develop your skills and confidence.
- Have Fun: Disc golf is a great way to get outside and play a sport that you love. Even if you don’t always hit your target, remember to have fun and enjoy the game.
Closing
As we conclude our exploration of “par” in disc golf, we hope you now have a clear understanding of this fundamental concept that guides the scoring and strategy of the game. Par serves as a standard benchmark for each hole, indicating the number of throws it should take a skilled player to complete it.
In disc golf, par not only provides a basis for evaluating your performance but also serves as a challenge to improve your skills and technique. Scoring below par is a rewarding achievement, signifying that you’ve managed to complete the hole in fewer throws than the expected average.
Remember, achieving par or better on every hole is not always the primary goal, especially for beginners. Focus on enjoying the game, honing your skills, and gradually lowering your scores as you gain experience.
As you progress in your disc golf journey, you’ll come to appreciate the art of strategic play, making calculated decisions to navigate each hole efficiently. Understanding par will guide you in choosing the right discs, selecting shots, and capitalizing on your strengths to achieve the best possible score.
Embrace the challenge of disc golf and the thrill of striving for par on each hole. Let par be your companion on the fairways, encouraging you to reach new heights in your game and fostering a deep appreciation for the sport’s intricacies.
So, fellow disc golfers, may every round be an opportunity to conquer par, elevate your skills, and revel in the joy of this fantastic sport. Happy disc golfing, and may your throws be ever on par!
