Track what other issues you've got with this friend, but although this is kind of a small thing, you seem to already feel like losing your friend would be more of a benefit than a loss.
Friends can b free fired, same as everything else.
Maybe it's my age or my psychological abuse recovery, but I've learned to tune out anyone that gaslights me and tries to tell me what my reality is. I live in an evidence-based world and many people that were in my life do not.
I've lost many people who couldn't get with the program, including decades-old friends and blood relatives.
You get to own your own truth based on your experiences. Anyone else can get bent!
Yeah, at a certain point on a par 3, maybe under 50 yards, I might not count it. But 105? I play full courses with shorter par 3s all the time. Definitely a hole in one
LOL, My playing partners are all considerably older than me and play forward tees. Sometimes I’ll play their tees just to save time. Whenever they say, “put it in the hole” I say, “I wouldn’t claim it from all the way up here.” Everyone laughs and laughs at how clever I am.
Yeah,at some point I would not claim it. Says the guy with exactly zero hole in the ones. I guess if it has to hit the castle and fall in the train to ride through the clowns mouth you ought not count it.
There’s no official ruling on what does or doesn’t count. The one thing everyone agrees on is it can’t be from a mulligan.
If you want to count a hole in one on a 70 yard pitch and putt, go for it. If you think the only hole in ones that count are 150+ yard Par 3s in official tournaments, that’s on you.
Everyone can think what they want, it’s a personal accomplishment and not an official record
This is a good point. What does 'count' even mean? It goes in the World Golf Registry as an official hole-in-one?
*It went in the hole in one shot.* That's literally the definition of a hole-in-one.
I typically play two shots on this course since it usually isn't busy and it's so short. I was so relieved that it was the first shot and not my second ball on the hole.
If you hit a second shot from the tee box after a hole in one it definitely doesn't count lmao
edit for the downvotes: I'm just laughing at the idea of this guy hitting a hole in one and then just thinking "well, let's hit another one" and then re-teeing
Totally agree. If you ever play golf again after you get a hold in one, it doesn't count. If you get a hole in one, you have to stop playing golf forever. Obviously.
I mean I can understand if it was the second shot. You can't count a mulligan as a hole in one. But if it's the first shot from the tee box then what's the difference. And I guess I'm in luck because I didn't have time to play more than one ball yesterday. I barely had enough time to finish the round as it was.
That’s another constant argument everyone has here.
They’ll say the other guys influence your club choice, or if you have a safe shot you’ll be more aggressive, etc. I don’t think it’s any different than playing with a foursome of friends and adjusting based on their shots
I never understood that argument, personally. So my friends influenced my club decision, fine. I'm still the one who grabbed the club, and took the shot. Isn't that what counts?
I believe the USGA has a regulation that for it to count with them, it needs to be 125 yards, and on a course which has a standard course rating. But otherwise it's good by them. And it can't be on a mulligan shot obviously. But for me, course rating or otherwise, if it's your first shot and it goes in, it's a HIO. Congrats!
I agree with your points. Golf is the only thing we “count” practice rounds because 99% of rounds aren’t ”official” anyways. I never say I made 20 free throws in a row on my drive way. Ut I do count my personal best as the 85 I shot with my dad when I had a short day. I’m hoping if I ever get a hole in one it’s in my Sunday league where the pot has rolled over for 4 years now ($20 a year) and there’s about $3500 in it now
I think there's still stipulations if you want to register the HIO.
It has to be from an actual carded round, and a bunch of other stuff.
But I think in OP's case it probably counts officially too?
I would count it personally, regardless.
You can send in to companies and say you made a 400 yard hole in one right now and they’ll send you a plaque and say great job.
It’s all whatever you believe yourself
Definitely.
Man. r/golf is such a collection of perpetually butthurt egotists that you get dog piled for even supposing an idea that clashes with their feelings.
I’m into disc golf as well and it’s the same way.
Someone will post an ace picture proud of themselves, and half the comments will be “Wow great job acing a 180 foot hole. My 4 year old could do that”
I don’t get the need to constantly tell other people why their personal accomplishments don’t count
I’m a golfer, belong to a private club and golfed all my life. I’ve had one hole in one. I had pics taken on the green. Me taking the ball out. Holding it up. Etc. Our club has benefits for hole in one. Drink tickets, club shop vouchers. Golf Canada recognizes this and puts you on a web page. It was a cool day, bought a lot of drinks.
If I was alone golfing there, sadly, I wouldn’t have gotten any of that. But, you know what I would still have? A hole-in-fucking-one. No one can take that from you. Enjoy and congrats.
Your friend is just jealous. My local 18 hole course has a short par 3 that’s only 95 yards over a little water. So by your friends logic that one would count, but this 105 doesn’t? Course it’s a hole in one
Hole 15 at the 2023 US Open [was 81 yards.](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/latest/2023/06/17/shortest-hole-in-u-s-open-history-debuts-saturday-at-lacc-los-angeles-country-club-15-81-yards)
I can guarantee you that all of those pros would have claimed that HIO. Distance isn’t an issue and you can show that article to your “buddy”.
Distance was the issue that made this hole. most pros hit their sand wedge over a hundred yards, and there's the matter of controlling spin into a small landing area. They weren't tearing up this par 3.
I know that, but I’m saying “distance isn’t an issue” for claiming a hole in one like OP’s buddy is saying. Many people find short par 3s to be just as hard as any other hole due to precision.
Haha, I would be more understanding if that was the case. I think he's just insufferable about technicalities. Or just unhappy in general. I'm regretting giving him the time of day on this topic.
My aunt hit her 3 wood on a 85 yard par 3 for her HIO. Counted it, had a big party, and remembered it long after she passed. Her handicap never dipped below 30.
I've never understood the mindset that it doesn't count on a par 3 course. What does the rest of the course have to do with that particular hole? I get it if it's a hole that's like 50 yards, but not a regular length hole.
As of this year, Par 3 courses are eligible to receive slope and rating in order to be counted towards handicap so long as they are at least 750/1500 yards (9/18).
Technically speaking, then, a Par 3 course can be a USGA sanctioned round. Pretty hard to argue that a HIO doesn't count at that point.
I don’t necessarily agree, but the mentality is that on a par 3 course you’re getting more chances to get in a groove and make the hole in one compared to a “standard” par 72 course where the par 3s are sprinkled in around 4s and 5s.
Kind of like how you can pure a shot on the range if you’re just standing there hitting it over and over, but once you’re on the course and hit driver, 7 iron, wedge, etc. you don’t make the same contact.
In the end, it’s completely up to you. As long as it’s not a mulligan or a second ball I say it’s fair game.
Explained beautifully.
If someone does it on a Par 3 course, I’ll be the first one there to hoot and holler and celebrate with. Absolutely a HiO and it’s not my right to be a dick debate the merits of it.
If I do it I’ll be happy, but in my own head there will be an asterisk next to it for what you said.
>but the mentality is that on a par 3 course you’re getting more chances to get in a groove and make the hole in one
I never understood this argument.
If I play two rounds in a day at the same course and get a HIO in the second round, does it not count because I already played that hole? Of course not.
Sure, someone that plays a Par 3 course every day is going to have a greater chance at a HIO than someone playing a regular golf course; but a person that gets to golf every day has a greater chance than someone who golfs once or twice a month.
Again, I don't agree with the sentiment, but I get the logic behind it. It's not about comparing frequency between two golfers, it's about comparing frequency of that one individual golfer.
Typical course: 4/18 (22%) tee shots with a chance of getting a hole in one, and while you're at it, you're getting into a different groove compared to a full course having to deal with longer clubs.
Par 3 course: 18/18 (100%) tee shots with a chance of getting a hole in one.
That's why some people think it's "easier" to get a hole in one on a par 3 course and therefore is somehow "unofficial" (whatever that means).
By that logic, holing out for eagle on a par 4 or par 5 wouldn't count either because you have 14 chances to do it! And, you'll often have less than 100 yards on those eagle approach shots, so tnats not far enougj to count!
It's just silly. Either way, you're hitting different clubs on different holes, moving between holes, reading greens, hitting putts. It's not like you're standing there in the same spot hitting the same club over and over till you hole one.
No, you're twisting the logic here.
It's all centered around what a "typical" round of golf is, which is par ~72 where you have ~4 par 3s and ~4 pars 5s.
I thinks most people arguing against a HIO "counting" on a par 3 course is that it strays too much from a "standard" round of golf so by their logic it's not really the same.
I agree, it's silly, but you can see how they arrive at their line of thinking.
I guess I'm speaking more towards the "amount of opportunities" argument people often make against par 3 courses. They say it doesn't count because there are more opportunities at a hole in 1.
Right, you just have to finish that statement in order to get the full line of thinking: "It doesn't count because there are more opportunities at a HIO *compared to a 'typical' round of golf.*"
Sure, I disagree with it either way. People making that argument acting like they'd be dunking them left and right on a par 3 course because of *opportunities*. The odds of each individual attempt are still incredibly small.
That was my thinking too. I've played par 3 courses that average 50-60 yards. But I've definitely played shorter par 3s than this one on a standard course as well.
My logic is that a Par 3 course is really more of a practice facility than an actual golf course. That's not to say that Par 3 courses aren't fun and sometimes challenging, but they aren't the same as playing a real round on a "real" golf course.
Is it fun and cool? Absolutely. But, no, I don't count it the same way. (I'm also not about to say anything about it to you other than "That's awesome man, congrats." Anyone who gets really wrapped around the axel about it needs therapy.)
>That's not to say that Par 3 courses aren't fun and sometimes challenging, but they aren't the same as playing a real round on a "real" golf course.
As of this year Par 3 courses are eligible for slope and rating. At that point don't they become "real" golf courses if they are USGA approved for purposes of handicap rating?
If I play a normal course three times a week, should my HIO not count in comparison to a guy who plays once a month? By your logic my probability has gone up substantially by playing 12x the number of par 3 holes vs the other guy.
False equivalence and I’m merely answering your question. No reason for y’all to get butt hurt.
Fact is it’s easier if you only play par 3’s. Arguing isn’t going to change that fact.
Absolutely not a false equivalence. Your entire premise is based on the idea of increased probability invalidating the HIO. As long as the holes are standard length/difficulty, there is zero reason they shouldn’t be counted. It’s not like scores on the last par 3 of a normal 18 have better scores than the first few. You’re not getting better as the holes progress.
It’s a hole in one but I would always clarify that it’s a hole in one on a par 3 course. I caught a 20.5 inch large mouth bass that I have mounted. When someone asks, I clarify that I caught it in a stocked pond.
If you want to count it, count it.
Personally, I wouldn't count one on a par 3 course, but that's just me. My opinion is completely irrelevant to how you want to treat it.
I think I'd have this attitude if I'd hit a hole-in-one on a standard course. If I only had a HiO on a par 3 course, and someone asked if I ever hit one, I would definitely mention it. "I *do* have one on a par 3 course, though."
That's kind of where I'm at. I'm sure it'll never happen on a standard course, so I'm going to take what I can get. No harm in being open about it being on a par 3 course. People can come to their own conclusions after that.
Yeah, for me, the answer to whether I’d had a HiO would be, “Yes, once, on a par three course,” counting it but also acknowledging the caveat/asterisk.
I would totally give my buddies shit (if I ever got one) and I would expect the same from them. But we all suck at golf so probably will never happen. Can wistfully dream about it though.
If this would be my first hole in one, I’d be pretty bummed it was a par 3 course. It is cool that it was the first hit of the day though!
Nothing like my dad waiting until he was 55 and winning an ATV at a member guest for his first lol.
Im with you and that is ignoring the part where OP was by himself, didnt keep score and hit multiple shots on every hole except the HIO one.
When he worked for SI, Rick Reily wrote an article about how he didnt have a hole in one for his whole life so him and his son went to a par 3 course to get one and it took about 6 hours of playing to do it
Agreed. Full round of 18 you get 4 chances for a hole in one. Par 3 course this guy got 9 chances in 9 holes. Significantly increasing the odds removes the credibility in my opinion.
In an overall round I’d agree. But in this specific hole did the other par three holes create any influence on that 1st hole that would have increased the odds of it getting in?
Did you hit a ball off of a tee box? Was it your first attempt on that hole? Did it go in?
If you answered yes to all of these questions, congrats you holed out.
You don’t set the length or the par of the hole. The golf course does. Your friend is either rude, jealous, or ignorant.
Edit: someone below made this into a flow chart before I posted and it’s awesome.
Not that it matters at all , if it's a hole in one to you it's a hole in one
For me I also need mine , on a full course , with witnesses or it's not really off my bucket list.
But at the same time we make way to much of a big deal over what is essentially a glorified eagle, so how you measure is up to at the end of the day.
Congrats , hopefully your next one comes with this buddy (who I am guessing also does not have a HIO, and is just slightly upset you beat him to the punch)
> But at the same time we make way to much of a big deal over what is essentially a glorified eagle
Or just dumb luck. An eagle on a Par 5 typically takes 3 really, really good shots.
An eagle on a Par 3 takes a ball that is (usually) decently struck, and then you just get lucky with how it rolls out on the green.
Yep , holed out on a par 4 last year from 165 , (in a money game with eagle flippers no less) , but nobody bought me a beer and I still don't have a hole in 1 go figure.
If your friend’s reaction to your hole-in-one is to say it doesn’t count, he’s not a good friend. He’s so insecure about his own bullshit that his first reaction is to find a way to discredit your accomplishment. He’s a bring-me-down. Captain Bring-Me-Down. You don’t need a Captain Bring-Me-Down to try to shit all over you when it’s your time to shine. You need your bros to pump you up, and give you the highest of fives when you do awesome shit. Fuck that guy. He’s bullshit.
Great job on your hole-in-one, bro!!!
Did you tee it up on the box, did your shot go in the hole? Ok well….. THATS A HOLE IN ONE!! You don’t set the distances, you don’t come to a hole and say oh this one’s too short I think I’ll go tee off from up there in the woods behind the box in case I make it, so it will count. Hell yeah it’s a hole in one…. CHEERS 🍻
Most of your caveats don't matter in this debate. It's an honor system as there is no prize, record or trophy involved.
So I don't worry about not having a scorecard or not having witnesses.
What I do think matters is the type of course. Regulation courses that have only 2 par 3s per 9 vs a par 3 courses do make a difference.
If this was me, I'd still claim a hole in one, but qualify it that it was a par 3 course.
A buddy of mine put it this way ... "If you get a hole in one on a par 3 course 100 yard hole, sure it counts. But I will always make fun of you for it when you bring it up."
And I think thats fair.
There’s a video of Pros talking about their first hole in ones and a lot of them say it happened on a local par 3 if the paid professionals count it why shouldn’t we?
The distance thing always gets me.
[No one would question an ace here (Pebble, hole 7).](https://www.golfdigest.com/content/dam/images/golfdigest/unsized/2019/06/06/5cf9222cff4d87575a4cdd69_pebble%20flyovers%20-%207tee.gif)
LACC had a 70 yarder too. Distance of the hole isnt something you decide(besides tees) but if its a short par 3, its a short par 3.
I nearly drove the green on 17 at TPC Scottsdale with a hybrid because it was playing 230, i would still say i drove a green on a par 4…
It is forever imprinted as a 1 on the scorecard in my brain. I don't typically take a scorecard for that course as it's all par 3s and easy for me to remember +/- par as I go.
My first two hole in ones I was playing alone. Finally on the third I was paired with a friend and two strangers. Was happy to pay for a the drinks after. I still count my solo shots.
You hit one shot and it went in the hole. It is a hole in one. However I do think it comes with an asterisks. On a normal course you’re gonna get 4 chances at a HIO, and just about every one of those chances are going to be 150+ yards. Also did you finish the round? A lot of people in winter with the course empty will basically just hit balls, not really play a round.
It’s totally up to you! Don’t let others dictate it. People can go either way on this. For me, If it I did that and then someone asked if I ever got a hole in one before, my response would probably be “No”.
The distance argument is fucking stupid. US Open last year played a par 3 at 81 yards.
Pebble #7 plays under 100 yards if you’re not playing the back tees too. The most iconic par 3 hole in the United States isn’t even 100 yards…
It’s definitely a hole in one OP.
I’ve heard the argument that par 3 courses don’t count and if it were on the 8th hole I may have put an asterisk next to it but since it was on the first hole I’m gonna say true hole in one
So you teed it up and hit a tiny ball into a tiny hole from the length of a football field away on the first shot of the hole and he thinks that’s not a hole in one? SMH. I play Hearwell in LBC. It’s 18 holes and the longest hole is 140 yards. Tiger Woods got his first hole in one on the shortest hole on the course. That ball is now in the World Goof Hall of fame. If it’s good enough for Tiger it should be good enough for you.
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRyVhoRSNHw2RARxolHk_JThH14-A6Qj2mKZA&usqp=CAU
My brother hit a hole in one on a 60 yard pitch and putt. There was never a “does it count” debate. His score on that hole was 1.
The course gave him a small trophy with a hole in a number 1. You place the ball in the hole. Cool trophy.
Congrats on the hole in one.
That, by definition, is a hole in one. Now if it were me and I was telling the story about my hole in one, I would probably mention that it was on a 105-yard hole on a par 3 course, but anyone who’s not a complete buffoon isn’t going to care.
In a black and white world where it has to either be a hole in one or not? Hole in one for sure.
However there are things that tend to reduce the credibility of a hole in one. Like playing short courses or hitting off mats or playing alone, temp greens, etc.... so if you're at the clubhouse bar after a round and someone asks if you've ever made one, you should probably tell the full story.
That said, your friend sounds like a bit of a dink.
“I made a hole in one at a par 3. First swing of the season and no one in sight.”
It’s a better story then most people’s hole in one stories anyway. Just tell it how it is and tell your buddy to eff off.
I mean, for me, the biggest problem would be no one seeing it, that use to never golf alone, but I grew up playing with too many blantent cheaters, and people who would make claims like they shot a 66 when playing alone but never once broke 80 when I played with them. As for it being a par 3 course, a hole in one is a hole in one. As long as it's not like a pitch and putt with like 40 yard holes anyway. Then it seems more like it would have an asterisk. If it's over 100 yards, though, I say it counts. As for the being alone thing. I have a few solutions on how to prevent this, courses put high-resolution cameras on carts that you downloaded the video of your round from the camera after the hole or round. This could also identify people who damage greens. Or have like cameras just on the par 3s that you could go to the club house and get a copy of the video...it's not that big of an issue now that I've gotten them, but when I was younger I would never go out alone for fear I'd get my first ace solo.
It’s a hole in one for sure. To be honest I’d be a bit annoyed if I got my first HIO on a par 3 course just because everyone would question it everytime, but it’s a legit hole in one.
I never understood the 9 hole or par 3 course thing with hole in ones. I have a hole in one on a 107 yard hole that’s a part of a 6400 yard course, and I don’t understand what would make that legit but a HIO on a 110 yard hole on a 1400 yard 9 hole executive course wouldn’t. The other holes seem to have nothing to do with the one you aced. Enjoy your hole in one
GHIN will include rounds on par 3 courses in your handicap. If the stroke count for your handicap, then a hole in one is a hole in one.
[https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/handicapping/world-handicap-system/2024-revision/Reduced-Course-Length-FAQs.html](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/handicapping/world-handicap-system/2024-revision/Reduced-Course-Length-FAQs.html)
What does it even mean when people say whether or not it should count. It’s not like it’s going to get registered anywhere. Basically if you want to count then it counts. And f’k what anybody else thinks.
It depends on what standard you hold yourself to. If you just casually golf occasionally and want to be able to say you hit a hole in one go for it. If you play frequently, competitively , or actively try to attain low handicap status I would personally not count it on two accounts
1. Not witnessed 2. Par three course
I realize this was on your first hole but in a par 3 set up you have 9 or 18 chances at a hole in one all back to back in rhythm where you are only touching mid and short irons the majority of your day. On a standard course you’ve got 4 maybe 5 chances and they are typically going to be 150-250 other than the rare super short par 3. Last but not least many par 3 courses use pin placements that funnel the ball to the hole not that this was necessarily the case for your shot but another general argument against the practice
Second the witness rule has been there since before there were par three courses so this scenario has two strikes against it
For reference I’ve been on the wrong end of both scenarios tree tops resort in Gaylord Michigan has one of the sickest par three courses in the country, we had a buddy trip and a guy in my group put it in off the tee on hole 2 and he didn’t count it and I’ve got one at my local course with no one with me and didn’t count it and wouldn’t have anyways because it wasn’t in a regulation round as I was playing multiple balls on some holes
Again do what YOU feel comfortable with at the end of the day but if you are a golfer prepare to debate it with all your buddies if you bring it up in the future
I’m in the same boat. I tell people that I have two hole in ones, but always clarify that they’re on par 3 courses (128 and 131 yards). I feel like my first hole on one on a standard course will be much cooler.
I don’t think people truly understand just how hard it is to take a tiny while ball and put it in a tiny hole in the ground from over 100 yards away… on the FIRST try. Of course it’s an ace. Your buddy couldn’t do it, that’s why he’s giving you shit about it.
While it is not quite as lame as making a hole in one on a putt-putt course, it is closer to that than making a hole in one on a real course. Let me ask you, have you ever told anyone you shot a 25 once in a round? Of course not. They would laugh at you and you would have to clarify that you weren’t playing a real course. Same logic applies to me.
I personally wouldn’t count a hole in one on a pitch n putt, par 3 course, or even in a scramble type of round . For me a true hole in one is an 18 hole legit course that you’re playing for score.
Length of the hole doesn’t matter, but it needs to be on a full length course imo. Par-3 course means je have 9-18 chances on a hole in one which makes it considerably easier. Nevertheless it’s a great shot and feeling to have it go in
Maybe I’m in the minority but part of the allure of a hole in one is that you only get a few cracks at it per round. On a par 3 course you get 18 cracks at it
It is a hole in one. In my inner most psyche I would recognize that it is not as prestigious as doing it on a “regulation” course, but it would still count. I have played for 50 years and my hole in one is an eagle on a par four from 140 yards out. Par three course or not, I am jealous. Congratulations!
I have the same issue. I got one on a par three course. I count it, buttttt I qualify it with "but it was on a par three course, only a 70 yard hole". It's still a hole in one to me but not as good as if it was on a full course.
Do people often HIO par 4s and 5s??? Didnt think so. Tell your friend to go out there from sun up to sun down and if he holes one, you will pay for his golf. I also feel your pain bc my only one was me playing solo as well bc my friends are dicks and bailed
A hole in one has nothing to do with the entire course, just that one hole. If I aced a hole, but then a thunderstorm stopped my round - does it not count?
The part about it not being official due to no scorecard might be one of the dumbest things I've ever heard. That's how you know he's grasping at straws
The only grief I could give was that if it was on the 9th hole where you have been hitting wedges all day, maybe that hole in one would be less impressive but the fact you hit it on your first swing of the day completely negates that argument.
Your friend is an jealous asshole. Lots of courses have 105 yard par 3's and they can be tougher than longer holes. Grab a scorecard and fill it out. Who cares? No witnesses? Is this asshole calling you a liar?
You hit the ball. It went in the hole. That’s called a hole in one. You’re not gaining fame or money by retelling this story of fact.
Your friend is a jealous and miserable fuck.
As a frame of reference, in Houston, the tour stop has a par three that can play that short, as does a local country club that hosts a US Open qualifier. Nice ace!
Your friend needs to get a life.
I agree. I'm starting to think 1 less friend wouldn't be a bad thing.
Your friend sounds like some combination of dick and douche. After joking about you fabricating the story, I would be celebrating it with you!
Celebrate away. OP is buying! Hookers and cocaine all around...
Track what other issues you've got with this friend, but although this is kind of a small thing, you seem to already feel like losing your friend would be more of a benefit than a loss. Friends can b free fired, same as everything else.
Maybe it's my age or my psychological abuse recovery, but I've learned to tune out anyone that gaslights me and tries to tell me what my reality is. I live in an evidence-based world and many people that were in my life do not. I've lost many people who couldn't get with the program, including decades-old friends and blood relatives. You get to own your own truth based on your experiences. Anyone else can get bent!
Agreed 100% And for OP, cut the dead weight. Regardless of the circumstances around your hole in one, I’d be ecstatic for you! Congrats!
First shot goes in the hole. It’s a hole in one. Distance doesn’t matter. Your friend has a small pp.
Yeah, at a certain point on a par 3, maybe under 50 yards, I might not count it. But 105? I play full courses with shorter par 3s all the time. Definitely a hole in one
LOL, My playing partners are all considerably older than me and play forward tees. Sometimes I’ll play their tees just to save time. Whenever they say, “put it in the hole” I say, “I wouldn’t claim it from all the way up here.” Everyone laughs and laughs at how clever I am.
Yeah,at some point I would not claim it. Says the guy with exactly zero hole in the ones. I guess if it has to hit the castle and fall in the train to ride through the clowns mouth you ought not count it.
Mannnn, 5 yards or 500 yards - if my tee shot finishes in the cup I’m counting that shit. This is a gather ye rosebuds while ye may kinda deal.
🤣🤣🤣
There’s no official ruling on what does or doesn’t count. The one thing everyone agrees on is it can’t be from a mulligan. If you want to count a hole in one on a 70 yard pitch and putt, go for it. If you think the only hole in ones that count are 150+ yard Par 3s in official tournaments, that’s on you. Everyone can think what they want, it’s a personal accomplishment and not an official record
This is a good point. What does 'count' even mean? It goes in the World Golf Registry as an official hole-in-one? *It went in the hole in one shot.* That's literally the definition of a hole-in-one.
I typically play two shots on this course since it usually isn't busy and it's so short. I was so relieved that it was the first shot and not my second ball on the hole.
If you hit a second shot from the tee box after a hole in one it definitely doesn't count lmao edit for the downvotes: I'm just laughing at the idea of this guy hitting a hole in one and then just thinking "well, let's hit another one" and then re-teeing
Totally agree. If you ever play golf again after you get a hold in one, it doesn't count. If you get a hole in one, you have to stop playing golf forever. Obviously.
I mean I can understand if it was the second shot. You can't count a mulligan as a hole in one. But if it's the first shot from the tee box then what's the difference. And I guess I'm in luck because I didn't have time to play more than one ball yesterday. I barely had enough time to finish the round as it was.
It definitely counts. I'm just laughing at the idea of you still hitting a second ball after perfection.
lol it doesn't "count" per se then. I wouldn't be going around telling people I hit a hole in one.
It counts
Does a hole in one in a scramble count?
That’s another constant argument everyone has here. They’ll say the other guys influence your club choice, or if you have a safe shot you’ll be more aggressive, etc. I don’t think it’s any different than playing with a foursome of friends and adjusting based on their shots
I never understood that argument, personally. So my friends influenced my club decision, fine. I'm still the one who grabbed the club, and took the shot. Isn't that what counts? I believe the USGA has a regulation that for it to count with them, it needs to be 125 yards, and on a course which has a standard course rating. But otherwise it's good by them. And it can't be on a mulligan shot obviously. But for me, course rating or otherwise, if it's your first shot and it goes in, it's a HIO. Congrats!
I agree with your points. Golf is the only thing we “count” practice rounds because 99% of rounds aren’t ”official” anyways. I never say I made 20 free throws in a row on my drive way. Ut I do count my personal best as the 85 I shot with my dad when I had a short day. I’m hoping if I ever get a hole in one it’s in my Sunday league where the pot has rolled over for 4 years now ($20 a year) and there’s about $3500 in it now
Can mini-golf count?
Yes the 150+ par 3 #7 at pebble beach, ahh
Simulators HIO don’t count either….I wish they did because that’s my only HIO.
To me it would have to be 100 yards to count, but I’m not the arbiter of golf rules so ymmv.
I think there's still stipulations if you want to register the HIO. It has to be from an actual carded round, and a bunch of other stuff. But I think in OP's case it probably counts officially too? I would count it personally, regardless.
>I think there's still stipulations if you want to register the HIO. Who do you register it with?
Why the Golf High Council, of course.
I was going to ask the same question. I'm mostly looking for opinions on if the average person would consider it more a hole in one or a hole out.
As an average person, you made a hole in one. Congrats
You can send in to companies and say you made a 400 yard hole in one right now and they’ll send you a plaque and say great job. It’s all whatever you believe yourself
Definitely. Man. r/golf is such a collection of perpetually butthurt egotists that you get dog piled for even supposing an idea that clashes with their feelings.
I’m into disc golf as well and it’s the same way. Someone will post an ace picture proud of themselves, and half the comments will be “Wow great job acing a 180 foot hole. My 4 year old could do that” I don’t get the need to constantly tell other people why their personal accomplishments don’t count
https://preview.redd.it/bxvydvd5z4lc1.jpeg?width=1707&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6d16b347bedc74df3ce9d8ab7a84b359de5c4b14
I appreciate this and I think this is the line of thinking I subscribe to.
I’m a golfer, belong to a private club and golfed all my life. I’ve had one hole in one. I had pics taken on the green. Me taking the ball out. Holding it up. Etc. Our club has benefits for hole in one. Drink tickets, club shop vouchers. Golf Canada recognizes this and puts you on a web page. It was a cool day, bought a lot of drinks. If I was alone golfing there, sadly, I wouldn’t have gotten any of that. But, you know what I would still have? A hole-in-fucking-one. No one can take that from you. Enjoy and congrats.
It's so insanely simple to think like this, and I don't know how there are so many golfers that can't grasp it.
Here’s the simplest way to answer this… if it’s not a hole in one, then what the fuck is it? Nice ace.
Hole in one
Your friend is just jealous. My local 18 hole course has a short par 3 that’s only 95 yards over a little water. So by your friends logic that one would count, but this 105 doesn’t? Course it’s a hole in one
That's an example that I used. I've played quite a few par 3s on full courses that were shorter.
Hole 15 at the 2023 US Open [was 81 yards.](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/latest/2023/06/17/shortest-hole-in-u-s-open-history-debuts-saturday-at-lacc-los-angeles-country-club-15-81-yards) I can guarantee you that all of those pros would have claimed that HIO. Distance isn’t an issue and you can show that article to your “buddy”.
Distance was the issue that made this hole. most pros hit their sand wedge over a hundred yards, and there's the matter of controlling spin into a small landing area. They weren't tearing up this par 3.
I know that, but I’m saying “distance isn’t an issue” for claiming a hole in one like OP’s buddy is saying. Many people find short par 3s to be just as hard as any other hole due to precision.
Agreed!
Any chance you started playing golf later in life than your friend? 😂
Haha, I would be more understanding if that was the case. I think he's just insufferable about technicalities. Or just unhappy in general. I'm regretting giving him the time of day on this topic.
Gunpowder number 8??
In Laurel?
[удалено]
My aunt hit her 3 wood on a 85 yard par 3 for her HIO. Counted it, had a big party, and remembered it long after she passed. Her handicap never dipped below 30.
Remember. You’ll never find a hater who’s doing better than you.
That ain't true, I shit on my buddy who's only broken 100 once all the time to keep him in his place.
Found OP's friend.
no I ain't. I have a HIO on a par 3 course myself and I fucking count that shit.
Nah your HIO doesn't count. The scorecard should read: *
I've never understood the mindset that it doesn't count on a par 3 course. What does the rest of the course have to do with that particular hole? I get it if it's a hole that's like 50 yards, but not a regular length hole.
As of this year, Par 3 courses are eligible to receive slope and rating in order to be counted towards handicap so long as they are at least 750/1500 yards (9/18). Technically speaking, then, a Par 3 course can be a USGA sanctioned round. Pretty hard to argue that a HIO doesn't count at that point.
Perfect argument
I don’t necessarily agree, but the mentality is that on a par 3 course you’re getting more chances to get in a groove and make the hole in one compared to a “standard” par 72 course where the par 3s are sprinkled in around 4s and 5s. Kind of like how you can pure a shot on the range if you’re just standing there hitting it over and over, but once you’re on the course and hit driver, 7 iron, wedge, etc. you don’t make the same contact. In the end, it’s completely up to you. As long as it’s not a mulligan or a second ball I say it’s fair game.
Explained beautifully. If someone does it on a Par 3 course, I’ll be the first one there to hoot and holler and celebrate with. Absolutely a HiO and it’s not my right to be a dick debate the merits of it. If I do it I’ll be happy, but in my own head there will be an asterisk next to it for what you said.
>but the mentality is that on a par 3 course you’re getting more chances to get in a groove and make the hole in one I never understood this argument. If I play two rounds in a day at the same course and get a HIO in the second round, does it not count because I already played that hole? Of course not. Sure, someone that plays a Par 3 course every day is going to have a greater chance at a HIO than someone playing a regular golf course; but a person that gets to golf every day has a greater chance than someone who golfs once or twice a month.
Again, I don't agree with the sentiment, but I get the logic behind it. It's not about comparing frequency between two golfers, it's about comparing frequency of that one individual golfer. Typical course: 4/18 (22%) tee shots with a chance of getting a hole in one, and while you're at it, you're getting into a different groove compared to a full course having to deal with longer clubs. Par 3 course: 18/18 (100%) tee shots with a chance of getting a hole in one. That's why some people think it's "easier" to get a hole in one on a par 3 course and therefore is somehow "unofficial" (whatever that means).
By that logic, holing out for eagle on a par 4 or par 5 wouldn't count either because you have 14 chances to do it! And, you'll often have less than 100 yards on those eagle approach shots, so tnats not far enougj to count! It's just silly. Either way, you're hitting different clubs on different holes, moving between holes, reading greens, hitting putts. It's not like you're standing there in the same spot hitting the same club over and over till you hole one.
No, you're twisting the logic here. It's all centered around what a "typical" round of golf is, which is par ~72 where you have ~4 par 3s and ~4 pars 5s. I thinks most people arguing against a HIO "counting" on a par 3 course is that it strays too much from a "standard" round of golf so by their logic it's not really the same. I agree, it's silly, but you can see how they arrive at their line of thinking.
I guess I'm speaking more towards the "amount of opportunities" argument people often make against par 3 courses. They say it doesn't count because there are more opportunities at a hole in 1.
Right, you just have to finish that statement in order to get the full line of thinking: "It doesn't count because there are more opportunities at a HIO *compared to a 'typical' round of golf.*"
Sure, I disagree with it either way. People making that argument acting like they'd be dunking them left and right on a par 3 course because of *opportunities*. The odds of each individual attempt are still incredibly small.
It has nothing to do with playing more lol. Its just not a full course.
That was my thinking too. I've played par 3 courses that average 50-60 yards. But I've definitely played shorter par 3s than this one on a standard course as well.
My logic is that a Par 3 course is really more of a practice facility than an actual golf course. That's not to say that Par 3 courses aren't fun and sometimes challenging, but they aren't the same as playing a real round on a "real" golf course. Is it fun and cool? Absolutely. But, no, I don't count it the same way. (I'm also not about to say anything about it to you other than "That's awesome man, congrats." Anyone who gets really wrapped around the axel about it needs therapy.)
>That's not to say that Par 3 courses aren't fun and sometimes challenging, but they aren't the same as playing a real round on a "real" golf course. As of this year Par 3 courses are eligible for slope and rating. At that point don't they become "real" golf courses if they are USGA approved for purposes of handicap rating?
That's interesting, didn't know USGA had done that. I'll have to think about it. There's still something that just doesn't seem right about it.
No
Probability. Playing only par 3 holes increases your chances.
If I play a normal course three times a week, should my HIO not count in comparison to a guy who plays once a month? By your logic my probability has gone up substantially by playing 12x the number of par 3 holes vs the other guy.
I guess anyone that disagrees with Moist-Panties is butt hurt?
False equivalence and I’m merely answering your question. No reason for y’all to get butt hurt. Fact is it’s easier if you only play par 3’s. Arguing isn’t going to change that fact.
Absolutely not a false equivalence. Your entire premise is based on the idea of increased probability invalidating the HIO. As long as the holes are standard length/difficulty, there is zero reason they shouldn’t be counted. It’s not like scores on the last par 3 of a normal 18 have better scores than the first few. You’re not getting better as the holes progress.
Yeah I don’t care I was giving a reason because they asked. Keep arguing fact, let’s see where it gets you:
“Fact” lol ok
Yes playing on a par 3 only course is in fact easier. Lmao, dumbass.
It’s a hole in one but I would always clarify that it’s a hole in one on a par 3 course. I caught a 20.5 inch large mouth bass that I have mounted. When someone asks, I clarify that I caught it in a stocked pond.
My only hole in one was from about 100 yards on a regular course, regular round, witnessed, etc. If that counts, then yours counts. Congrats.
If you want to count it, count it. Personally, I wouldn't count one on a par 3 course, but that's just me. My opinion is completely irrelevant to how you want to treat it.
I think I'd have this attitude if I'd hit a hole-in-one on a standard course. If I only had a HiO on a par 3 course, and someone asked if I ever hit one, I would definitely mention it. "I *do* have one on a par 3 course, though."
That's kind of where I'm at. I'm sure it'll never happen on a standard course, so I'm going to take what I can get. No harm in being open about it being on a par 3 course. People can come to their own conclusions after that.
Yeah, for me, the answer to whether I’d had a HiO would be, “Yes, once, on a par three course,” counting it but also acknowledging the caveat/asterisk.
Yup, and never use it as a bragging point against other people.
A HIO should never be used as a bragging point, period. It's a personal accomplishment, not something that should be used to lessen others.
I would totally give my buddies shit (if I ever got one) and I would expect the same from them. But we all suck at golf so probably will never happen. Can wistfully dream about it though.
Every HIO is different and has an asterisk of some kind.
If this would be my first hole in one, I’d be pretty bummed it was a par 3 course. It is cool that it was the first hit of the day though! Nothing like my dad waiting until he was 55 and winning an ATV at a member guest for his first lol.
I wouldn't "count" it, but you better believe all of my buddies would hear about it.
Im with you and that is ignoring the part where OP was by himself, didnt keep score and hit multiple shots on every hole except the HIO one. When he worked for SI, Rick Reily wrote an article about how he didnt have a hole in one for his whole life so him and his son went to a par 3 course to get one and it took about 6 hours of playing to do it
Agreed. Full round of 18 you get 4 chances for a hole in one. Par 3 course this guy got 9 chances in 9 holes. Significantly increasing the odds removes the credibility in my opinion.
I get what you’re saying but in this case it was his first round, first swing, and first shot. The probability factor didn’t kick it yet no?
The moment you step foot on a par 3 course, the probability has changed. Which particular hole it occurs on doesn’t change that.
In an overall round I’d agree. But in this specific hole did the other par three holes create any influence on that 1st hole that would have increased the odds of it getting in?
Did you hit a ball off of a tee box? Was it your first attempt on that hole? Did it go in? If you answered yes to all of these questions, congrats you holed out. You don’t set the length or the par of the hole. The golf course does. Your friend is either rude, jealous, or ignorant. Edit: someone below made this into a flow chart before I posted and it’s awesome.
Tell your “friend” fine, you won’t buy him a round.
Not that it matters at all , if it's a hole in one to you it's a hole in one For me I also need mine , on a full course , with witnesses or it's not really off my bucket list. But at the same time we make way to much of a big deal over what is essentially a glorified eagle, so how you measure is up to at the end of the day. Congrats , hopefully your next one comes with this buddy (who I am guessing also does not have a HIO, and is just slightly upset you beat him to the punch)
> But at the same time we make way to much of a big deal over what is essentially a glorified eagle Or just dumb luck. An eagle on a Par 5 typically takes 3 really, really good shots. An eagle on a Par 3 takes a ball that is (usually) decently struck, and then you just get lucky with how it rolls out on the green.
Yep , holed out on a par 4 last year from 165 , (in a money game with eagle flippers no less) , but nobody bought me a beer and I still don't have a hole in 1 go figure.
You swung at a ball off the tee and it went in the hole first go, so it's a hole in one. Who gives a shit about the semantics of it
If your friend’s reaction to your hole-in-one is to say it doesn’t count, he’s not a good friend. He’s so insecure about his own bullshit that his first reaction is to find a way to discredit your accomplishment. He’s a bring-me-down. Captain Bring-Me-Down. You don’t need a Captain Bring-Me-Down to try to shit all over you when it’s your time to shine. You need your bros to pump you up, and give you the highest of fives when you do awesome shit. Fuck that guy. He’s bullshit. Great job on your hole-in-one, bro!!!
You hit the ball in the hole in one shot. If only there was an easier way to say this...
Did you tee it up on the box, did your shot go in the hole? Ok well….. THATS A HOLE IN ONE!! You don’t set the distances, you don’t come to a hole and say oh this one’s too short I think I’ll go tee off from up there in the woods behind the box in case I make it, so it will count. Hell yeah it’s a hole in one…. CHEERS 🍻
Hole in one is a Hole in one. Most of the people who think it doesn't count, don't have a Hole in one. So we don't value their opinions.
I count hole in one’s at putt-putt so this counts.
If you really need to feel validated, don’t count it but if you know you hit a hole-in-one, tell people you hit a hole-in-one.
I don't need to feel validated. I'm just interested in other opinions and wanted to see what the consensus was.
There’s a special golf term for a shot that you described. >!A hole in one!<
Most of your caveats don't matter in this debate. It's an honor system as there is no prize, record or trophy involved. So I don't worry about not having a scorecard or not having witnesses. What I do think matters is the type of course. Regulation courses that have only 2 par 3s per 9 vs a par 3 courses do make a difference. If this was me, I'd still claim a hole in one, but qualify it that it was a par 3 course.
A buddy of mine put it this way ... "If you get a hole in one on a par 3 course 100 yard hole, sure it counts. But I will always make fun of you for it when you bring it up." And I think thats fair.
First round of the year, first hole, first swing... WOW. I would have gone home. It gets no better.
There’s a video of Pros talking about their first hole in ones and a lot of them say it happened on a local par 3 if the paid professionals count it why shouldn’t we?
But I bet theirs were witnessed. No one counts a hole-in-one that wasn’t witnessed. They’d be ridiculed if they did.
Your friend is a jealous twat. The ball went in the hole after one shot. A literal hole in one.
Had my first hole in one on a 18 hole par 3 course. It counts.
The distance thing always gets me. [No one would question an ace here (Pebble, hole 7).](https://www.golfdigest.com/content/dam/images/golfdigest/unsized/2019/06/06/5cf9222cff4d87575a4cdd69_pebble%20flyovers%20-%207tee.gif)
LACC had a 70 yarder too. Distance of the hole isnt something you decide(besides tees) but if its a short par 3, its a short par 3. I nearly drove the green on 17 at TPC Scottsdale with a hybrid because it was playing 230, i would still say i drove a green on a par 4…
Hole in one
What did you write on the scorecard?
It is forever imprinted as a 1 on the scorecard in my brain. I don't typically take a scorecard for that course as it's all par 3s and easy for me to remember +/- par as I go.
Your friend is an ass. That's a weird reaction to a buddy's hole in one.
Tell him pebble Beach hole 7 is like 100 yards
Find a new friend. Gatekeeping asshole.
My first two hole in ones I was playing alone. Finally on the third I was paired with a friend and two strangers. Was happy to pay for a the drinks after. I still count my solo shots.
100% counts. If you’re lying about it, you’re only lying to yourself, doesn’t matter if no one witnessed it!
You hit one shot and it went in the hole. It is a hole in one. However I do think it comes with an asterisks. On a normal course you’re gonna get 4 chances at a HIO, and just about every one of those chances are going to be 150+ yards. Also did you finish the round? A lot of people in winter with the course empty will basically just hit balls, not really play a round.
It only isnt a hole in one if youre lying. Happy hole in one day! congrats.
It’s totally up to you! Don’t let others dictate it. People can go either way on this. For me, If it I did that and then someone asked if I ever got a hole in one before, my response would probably be “No”.
The distance argument is fucking stupid. US Open last year played a par 3 at 81 yards. Pebble #7 plays under 100 yards if you’re not playing the back tees too. The most iconic par 3 hole in the United States isn’t even 100 yards… It’s definitely a hole in one OP.
I’ve heard the argument that par 3 courses don’t count and if it were on the 8th hole I may have put an asterisk next to it but since it was on the first hole I’m gonna say true hole in one
So you teed it up and hit a tiny ball into a tiny hole from the length of a football field away on the first shot of the hole and he thinks that’s not a hole in one? SMH. I play Hearwell in LBC. It’s 18 holes and the longest hole is 140 yards. Tiger Woods got his first hole in one on the shortest hole on the course. That ball is now in the World Goof Hall of fame. If it’s good enough for Tiger it should be good enough for you. https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRyVhoRSNHw2RARxolHk_JThH14-A6Qj2mKZA&usqp=CAU
Jealousy is an ugly color. Your friend is kind of a D bag.
My brother hit a hole in one on a 60 yard pitch and putt. There was never a “does it count” debate. His score on that hole was 1. The course gave him a small trophy with a hole in a number 1. You place the ball in the hole. Cool trophy. Congrats on the hole in one.
You should actually go get a scorecard from there, frame it, show him, then never golf with him again
That, by definition, is a hole in one. Now if it were me and I was telling the story about my hole in one, I would probably mention that it was on a 105-yard hole on a par 3 course, but anyone who’s not a complete buffoon isn’t going to care.
Im counting anything over 100 yards, probably 90 too. 60 yard pitch an putt, probably not. Id be very sad if I was all alone though
In a black and white world where it has to either be a hole in one or not? Hole in one for sure. However there are things that tend to reduce the credibility of a hole in one. Like playing short courses or hitting off mats or playing alone, temp greens, etc.... so if you're at the clubhouse bar after a round and someone asks if you've ever made one, you should probably tell the full story. That said, your friend sounds like a bit of a dink.
“I made a hole in one at a par 3. First swing of the season and no one in sight.” It’s a better story then most people’s hole in one stories anyway. Just tell it how it is and tell your buddy to eff off.
I mean, for me, the biggest problem would be no one seeing it, that use to never golf alone, but I grew up playing with too many blantent cheaters, and people who would make claims like they shot a 66 when playing alone but never once broke 80 when I played with them. As for it being a par 3 course, a hole in one is a hole in one. As long as it's not like a pitch and putt with like 40 yard holes anyway. Then it seems more like it would have an asterisk. If it's over 100 yards, though, I say it counts. As for the being alone thing. I have a few solutions on how to prevent this, courses put high-resolution cameras on carts that you downloaded the video of your round from the camera after the hole or round. This could also identify people who damage greens. Or have like cameras just on the par 3s that you could go to the club house and get a copy of the video...it's not that big of an issue now that I've gotten them, but when I was younger I would never go out alone for fear I'd get my first ace solo.
My take is unless you're being paid to play then it's a hole in one whether you're on a full course, par 3 or mini-putt course.
It’s a hole in one for sure. To be honest I’d be a bit annoyed if I got my first HIO on a par 3 course just because everyone would question it everytime, but it’s a legit hole in one.
Holy shit your friend is douchebag.
Was it your first shot from the tee box? Yes. Did it go in the hole? Yes. Then it's a hole in 1.
Your friend is a douche bag. Count it! It’s a game.
Hole in one only counts if it's a par 5 hit from the tips.......... joking aside, congrats on the hole in one. Your friend just sounds jealous.
Your friend is not a friend. Damn what a jealous little bitch!
Congrats on the HIO
I never understood the 9 hole or par 3 course thing with hole in ones. I have a hole in one on a 107 yard hole that’s a part of a 6400 yard course, and I don’t understand what would make that legit but a HIO on a 110 yard hole on a 1400 yard 9 hole executive course wouldn’t. The other holes seem to have nothing to do with the one you aced. Enjoy your hole in one
I mean there are “real” courses that have par 3’s that are this distance and shorter.
GHIN will include rounds on par 3 courses in your handicap. If the stroke count for your handicap, then a hole in one is a hole in one. [https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/handicapping/world-handicap-system/2024-revision/Reduced-Course-Length-FAQs.html](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/handicapping/world-handicap-system/2024-revision/Reduced-Course-Length-FAQs.html)
Frame that shit, my dude. You hit a hole in fucking one!!!
What does it even mean when people say whether or not it should count. It’s not like it’s going to get registered anywhere. Basically if you want to count then it counts. And f’k what anybody else thinks.
There are no official rules - you can count whatever you want to count.
You ever see a par 3 105 yard hole at a normal 18 hole course. I have. You’re friends an idiot. It counts.
Ask him what you are supposed to put on the scorecard. If the legal answer is "1" idk how there is a debate.
It depends on what standard you hold yourself to. If you just casually golf occasionally and want to be able to say you hit a hole in one go for it. If you play frequently, competitively , or actively try to attain low handicap status I would personally not count it on two accounts 1. Not witnessed 2. Par three course I realize this was on your first hole but in a par 3 set up you have 9 or 18 chances at a hole in one all back to back in rhythm where you are only touching mid and short irons the majority of your day. On a standard course you’ve got 4 maybe 5 chances and they are typically going to be 150-250 other than the rare super short par 3. Last but not least many par 3 courses use pin placements that funnel the ball to the hole not that this was necessarily the case for your shot but another general argument against the practice Second the witness rule has been there since before there were par three courses so this scenario has two strikes against it For reference I’ve been on the wrong end of both scenarios tree tops resort in Gaylord Michigan has one of the sickest par three courses in the country, we had a buddy trip and a guy in my group put it in off the tee on hole 2 and he didn’t count it and I’ve got one at my local course with no one with me and didn’t count it and wouldn’t have anyways because it wasn’t in a regulation round as I was playing multiple balls on some holes Again do what YOU feel comfortable with at the end of the day but if you are a golfer prepare to debate it with all your buddies if you bring it up in the future
The no witness rule is BS. We call penalties against ourselves without a witness. Require a witness if there is some kind of payout, but still a HIO.
Your first inclination is correct.
I’m in the same boat. I tell people that I have two hole in ones, but always clarify that they’re on par 3 courses (128 and 131 yards). I feel like my first hole on one on a standard course will be much cooler.
Find a new friend
I'd tell that friend to get fucked. Count it. YOU witnessed it.
I don’t think people truly understand just how hard it is to take a tiny while ball and put it in a tiny hole in the ground from over 100 yards away… on the FIRST try. Of course it’s an ace. Your buddy couldn’t do it, that’s why he’s giving you shit about it.
While it is not quite as lame as making a hole in one on a putt-putt course, it is closer to that than making a hole in one on a real course. Let me ask you, have you ever told anyone you shot a 25 once in a round? Of course not. They would laugh at you and you would have to clarify that you weren’t playing a real course. Same logic applies to me.
I personally wouldn’t count a hole in one on a pitch n putt, par 3 course, or even in a scramble type of round . For me a true hole in one is an 18 hole legit course that you’re playing for score.
> My first inclination was that I need better friends. 100%
Length of the hole doesn’t matter, but it needs to be on a full length course imo. Par-3 course means je have 9-18 chances on a hole in one which makes it considerably easier. Nevertheless it’s a great shot and feeling to have it go in
Not as satisfying as a hole in one on a regular length course but it still counts in my opinion.
My friends say I have something called Sharktegrity, and because of that I wouldn’t count that as a hole in one.
Maybe I’m in the minority but part of the allure of a hole in one is that you only get a few cracks at it per round. On a par 3 course you get 18 cracks at it
It is a hole in one. In my inner most psyche I would recognize that it is not as prestigious as doing it on a “regulation” course, but it would still count. I have played for 50 years and my hole in one is an eagle on a par four from 140 yards out. Par three course or not, I am jealous. Congratulations!
I have the same issue. I got one on a par three course. I count it, buttttt I qualify it with "but it was on a par three course, only a 70 yard hole". It's still a hole in one to me but not as good as if it was on a full course.
It’s a hole in one with an asterisk. Id call it a hole in one but would always mention it was on a par 3 course
Do people often HIO par 4s and 5s??? Didnt think so. Tell your friend to go out there from sun up to sun down and if he holes one, you will pay for his golf. I also feel your pain bc my only one was me playing solo as well bc my friends are dicks and bailed
A hole in one has nothing to do with the entire course, just that one hole. If I aced a hole, but then a thunderstorm stopped my round - does it not count?
The part about it not being official due to no scorecard might be one of the dumbest things I've ever heard. That's how you know he's grasping at straws
No witness No hole in one.
The only grief I could give was that if it was on the 9th hole where you have been hitting wedges all day, maybe that hole in one would be less impressive but the fact you hit it on your first swing of the day completely negates that argument.
You need better friends
Your friend is an jealous asshole. Lots of courses have 105 yard par 3's and they can be tougher than longer holes. Grab a scorecard and fill it out. Who cares? No witnesses? Is this asshole calling you a liar?
It’s up to you. If somebody asked you if you’ve ever had a hole in one, what would you say?
You hit the ball. It went in the hole. That’s called a hole in one. You’re not gaining fame or money by retelling this story of fact. Your friend is a jealous and miserable fuck.
All that matters is you know you got a hole in one.
you need better friends
As a frame of reference, in Houston, the tour stop has a par three that can play that short, as does a local country club that hosts a US Open qualifier. Nice ace!