Miles Bennett
In golf, a bogey is a term used to describe a golfer's score of one stroke over par on a particular hole. For example, if a hole has a par of three and the golfer takes four strokes to complete it, they have scored a bogey. The term bogey was first used in 1890 at the Great Yarmouth Golf Club in England, when Charles Wellman used the term bogey man to describe his effort to match the course's ground score, which was the term used at the time for what we now call par.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Meaning | A golf scoring term |
| Definition | Scoring one stroke over par on a particular hole |
| Synonyms | One-over par, disaster hole |
| Variants | Double bogey, triple bogey, quadruple bogey, quintuple bogey, sextuple bogey |
| Etymology | Coined by Charles Wellman in 1890 at Great Yarmouth Golf Club, England |
| Who uses it? | Amateur golfers |
| How to avoid it? | Patience, determination, club analysis, strategic thinking, practising putts |
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What You'll Learn
Bogey meaning: a score of one stroke over par
In golf, a "bogey" is a scoring term that means a golfer has made a score of one stroke over par on a particular hole. The term "bogey" dates back to 1890 at the Great Yarmouth Golf Club in England. During a game, Charles Wellman used the term "bogey man" to describe his effort to match the course's ground score—the term used at the time for what we now call par. By 1892, the term had evolved with the invention of the character Colonel Bogey, representing the score golfers aimed to beat during a round.
Bogey competitions emerged, where players competed against the course using stroke play rules. On each hole, the golfer's goal is to beat the bogey score. Scoring better than a bogey wins the hole and moves the player +1. Scoring a bogey results in a tie, and the score remains unchanged. Scoring worse than a bogey (e.g., a double bogey) means losing the hole and moving -1. Bogey competitions are played through all 18 holes, and the winner is determined by the total holes won minus the total holes lost.
The number of strokes a golfer takes to complete a hole is very important. Par, the benchmark representing the number of strokes an expert golfer should ideally take, sets the standard for excellence on the course. A bogey golfer is someone who consistently averages a bogey on every hole, ending either 9 over par on nine holes or 18 over par on a full 18-hole round. Low handicap, scratch, and professional golfers are often disappointed with getting a bogey as they strive to score at or below par on every hole. However, for average golfers, achieving a bogey is a significant accomplishment.
There are also terms for scores worse than a bogey, such as a double bogey, which is a score of two strokes over par, a triple bogey, which is three strokes over par, and a quadruple bogey, which is four strokes over par. Beyond quadruple bogeys, there are even higher scores, such as quintuple or sextuple bogeys, and any score more than three over par is often called a "disaster hole."
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Bogey golfer: a player who consistently scores bogeys
In golf, a bogey is a term used to describe when a golfer scores one stroke over par on a particular hole. The term "bogey golfer" is used to refer to a player who consistently scores one stroke over par on every hole. This would amount to a score of nine-over par for nine holes or eighteen-over par for a full eighteen-hole round.
For example, if a hole has a par of three and a golfer takes four strokes to complete it, they have scored a bogey. On a par-five hole, a golfer would score a bogey if they completed the hole in six strokes, resulting in a score of one-over par. This is often considered a good outcome for beginner golfers, as it only takes one additional stroke to complete the hole.
While experienced golfers may be disappointed with a bogey, it is a score that new golfers can aspire to. Scoring a bogey on every hole of a round is a significant accomplishment for those new to the game, as it demonstrates a consistent level of play and an understanding of course management.
To improve their scores and avoid bogeys, golfers can employ various strategies. This includes analysing the hole and selecting the appropriate clubs, taking into account potential obstacles such as woods and water hazards. Practising putting can also help lower scores, as it reduces the number of strokes needed to get the ball into the hole. Additionally, golfers should consider the risks and rewards of different shots and make strategic decisions accordingly.
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Bogey history: the term dates back to 1890
The term "bogey" in golf dates back to 1890 when Mr Hugh Rotherham, Secretary of the Coventry Golf Club, came up with the idea of standardising the number of shots at each hole that a good golfer should take. He called this the 'ground score'. The concept was adopted by Dr Browne, Secretary of the Great Yarmouth Club, and this style of competition was introduced for match play. During one such competition, a player's performance prompted Mr CA Wellman (possibly Major Charles Wellman) to exclaim, "This player of yours is a regular Bogey man".
The term "bogey" was derived from the word "bogey-man", which was a widely used term for a goblin or devil as far back as the 16th century. In the context of golf, it referred to an imaginary opponent or a standard score that golfers measured themselves against. This led to the introduction of bogey competitions, which are now known as handicap competitions or stablefords.
In golf, a "bogey" refers to a score of one stroke over par on a particular hole. For example, on a par three, a golfer would score a bogey if they complete the hole in four strokes, resulting in a score of 1-over par. If a golfer scores more than one stroke over par, they would be referred to as a "double bogey" (2-over par), "triple bogey", or "quadruple bogey", and so on.
While low handicap, scratch, and professional golfers may view a bogey as a disappointing score, it is still a respectable achievement for newer golfers. For the average golfer, breaking a score of 90 (which would be achieved by scoring a bogey on every hole of an 18-hole round) is considered a significant milestone.
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Double bogey: scoring two strokes over par
In the game of golf, a double bogey refers to a player scoring two strokes more than the par of the particular hole they are playing. It is a common golf scoring term and is familiar to most golfers, especially those who play recreationally.
A double bogey is a challenging moment for a golfer, but it is not uncommon and can be an opportunity to improve and learn from one's mistakes. It is important for golfers to maintain a positive perspective and understand that even the most skilled golfers encounter such setbacks. Analysing what went wrong—whether it was a wayward tee shot or a misjudgment on the green—can help golfers improve their performance and avoid making the same mistakes in the future.
To minimise the occurrence of double bogeys, golfers need to blend skill, focus, and mental fortitude. Knowing the course well, including its layout, hazards, and potential pitfalls, can help golfers plan their shots better. Regular practice, especially in scenarios that mimic challenging holes, can also enhance their ability to handle difficult situations with confidence.
Golf is as much a mental game as a physical one, and it is important for golfers to stay focused, positive, and composed, even when facing setbacks. Strategic decision-making and choosing the right shots are crucial in avoiding double bogeys. For example, in some situations, playing conservatively and aiming for a bogey may be wiser than risking a double bogey.
Avoiding double bogeys is a key aspect of successful golf, and it requires discipline, grit, and resilience. Golfers need to evaluate their options, be honest about their capabilities, and make decisions that give them the best chance of success while minimising mistakes. While it is important to strive for better scores, golfers should not be too hard on themselves when they encounter setbacks, as even the best golfers will make double bogeys throughout their golfing careers.
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Avoiding bogeys: tips and tricks
Golfers of all skill levels strive to avoid bogeys, which occur when a golfer's score is one stroke over par on a particular hole. While professional golfers are often disappointed by a bogey, for newer players, achieving a bogey is a significant accomplishment.
Know Your Limits and Be Strategic
Being realistic with your golf game will benefit you in the long run. Analyze the hole you're playing and choose your clubs accordingly. Take into account any obstacles, such as woods or water hazards, that might impact the movement of the ball. Golf is a strategic game, so consider whether a risky shot is worth it or if there is a better route to take.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Even the best golfers need to practice. Focus on honing your skills with a few selected clubs and work on specific trouble spots. Practice your drive, sand shots, and wedge shots, and don't forget to practice your muscle memory for common shots.
Manage Your Expectations and Mindset
Golf is a mental game as well as a physical one. A single mistake or bad hole can impact your mindset and performance for the rest of the round. It's important to remember that mistakes happen and to focus on your thoughts and expectations after a mistake. Don't let a bogey or two ruin your entire game!
By following these tips and maintaining a positive, strategic mindset, you can improve your golf game and avoid those pesky bogeys.
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Frequently asked questions
A bogey is a golf scoring term that refers to a golfer scoring one stroke over par on a particular hole. For example, if a hole has a par of three and the golfer takes four strokes to sink the ball, they have scored a bogey.
A bogey golfer is someone who consistently averages a bogey on every hole. For instance, they would have a score of nine-over par for nine holes or eighteen-over par for eighteen holes.
A double bogey is when a golfer scores two strokes over par on a hole. For example, scoring a five on a par-three hole is a double bogey.
