Par-3s are a great scoring opportunity for weekend warriors, but many players aren’t familiar with the best way to attack these holes. In this edition of Play Smart, GOLF Teacher to Watch Christy Longfield offers some advice on how to approach par-3s strategically to take advantage of scoring opportunities. When stepping up to a par-3 tee box, the first step is to get key yardages. Instead of just focusing on the distance to the pin, consider other factors such as hazards that may come into play.
When facing a hazard, it’s important to shoot the yardage to cover that obstacle to ensure your shot clears it. Additionally, shoot the distance to the back of the green to determine the maximum distance your shot should travel. By selecting a club that will land between these two distances, you create a larger target area on the green to aim for. This approach gives you a better chance of hitting the green and setting up birdie opportunities. Longfield emphasizes the importance of looking at the bigger picture when attacking par-3s, rather than just focusing on hitting towards the pin.
This strategic approach to par-3s can help weekend warriors improve their scoring on these holes. By taking the time to gather key yardages and selecting the right club to fit between the minimum and maximum distances, players can increase their chances of hitting the green in regulation. This larger target area allows for more consistent approach shots to the green, giving players more opportunities to score well on par-3s. Longfield’s advice highlights the importance of playing the percentages and maximizing scoring opportunities on these holes.
Bryson DeChambeau also has a drill for improving swing path, which can be beneficial for players looking to enhance their performance on par-3s. By focusing on swing path and ensuring a consistent ball flight, players can increase their chances of hitting the green and setting up scoring opportunities. This drill, combined with Longfield’s advice on strategic approach to par-3s, can help players of all levels improve their performance on these challenging holes. Whether you’re a high-handicapper or a seasoned player, using the right strategy on par-3s can lead to lower scores and more enjoyable rounds of golf.
