If you’re a golfer, then you’ve no doubt heard of the term albatross. But what does it mean? And how do you achieve one?
In golf, an “albatross” is often called a “double eagle.” It is the golf term used for when a golfer sinks a tee shot on a par-5 hole in two shots.
It’s one of the rarest achievements in the game of golf, and it’s something that every golfer should work towards. If you can achieve an albatross, you’ll be in good shape to score well on future rounds.
Table of Contents
The History (Origin) of the Albatross In Golf
The term “albatross” actually refers to a large seabird often seen in the North Atlantic region. This is why it’s so fitting for a three under par on a single hole.
Birdie and eagle are terms already established for one and two under par shots respectively. And now there’s an even rarer scenario of the three under par on a single hole, which is called an albatross.
The term has been used in golf since the early 20th century; and it is even comes up in some of the earliest known golf books. For example, in 1909, Henry Leach’s book The Golf Course: Its Architecture, Construction & Maintenance mentions “albatross” as an alternative term for “double eagle.”
So the next time you play, be sure to keep your eye out for any opportunity to score an albatross. It’s one of golf’s greatest achievements and is sure to bring you glory. And even if you don’t achieve it, just being in contention for such a rare feat is a great accomplishment.
How Does an Albatross Occur?
The only way to achieve an albatross is to hit two perfect shots in succession on a par-5 hole. The first shot needs to be long enough that it reaches the green, and the second shot must avoid any obstacles such as trees or water hazards.
If a golfer can make an albatross, he/she is rewarded with three strokes on the scorecard instead of the typical five. As such, this can be a crucial achievement that can lower someone’s final score significantly.
But making an albatross isn’t easy by any means; it requires a combination of skill, luck, and practice. However, if a golfer can achieve an albatross, that will surely be a moment that they remember for the rest of their life. It is something that every golfer should strive to achieve but also enjoy the journey in doing so!
The Scores That Result in an Albatross
An albatross can occur at any par, but the number of strokes needed for an albatross to take place depends on the par. Generally speaking, it takes one stroke to sink a tee shot on a par-4 hole, two strokes to sink it on a par-5 hole, three strokes to sink it on a par-6 hole, and four strokes to sink it on a par-7 hole.
So if you’re able to achieve an albatross in any of these situations, you’ll have accomplished something truly remarkable.
How Rare is an Albatross in Golf?
An albatross is a rare feat in golf. Nonetheless, it’s something that every golfer should work towards. According to one estimate, the odds of making one are about 6 million to 1. And your odds of being struck by lightning are 1 in 1.2 million. The latter is more likely than the former!
Regardless, if you’re looking for a challenge in your next round of golf, why not aim for an albatross? It may take some practice and skill, but it’s an exciting accomplishment that won’t be easily forgotten.
How Many Golfers Have Made an Albatross?
Though rare, albatrosses do occur. In the history of The Masters, there have been onlyfour albatrosses scored. Over the first 60 years of the LPGA Tour, a total of only 30 albatrosses were achieved. And in the U.S. Open, just three have been recorded so far.
Achieving an albatross is a big deal, hence it requires immense skill and dedication. It’s something that all golfers should strive for. And with the right technique and a bit of luck, you could be one of the few people to make a double eagle!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When Was the First Albatross in Golf?
The first albatross in golf was recorded during the 1935 Masters Tournament by Gene Sarazen. He hit a double eagle on the 15th hole at Augusta National Golf Club. From then on, the term “albatross” has been used to describe such an amazing accomplishment.
Did Tiger Woods Ever hit an Albatross?
No, Tiger Woods has not hit an albatross. However, he did come incredibly close at the 2005 Masters Tournament when his second shot on the par-5 15th hole rolled only inches away from the cup. Still, an impressive achievement that only few have been able to replicate!
What’s the Difference Between an Albatross and Double Eagle?
There is no difference between an albatross and a double eagle; they are simply two different names for the same thing – scoring three below- par on a hole. So if you actually achieve such an accomplishment, be sure to enjoy it regardless of what you call it.
Is Albatross Better Than Hole-in-One?
Yes, an albatross is better than a hole-in-one because it involves three strokes less than the par of the hole. A hole-in-one only involves one stroke under par, thus can be more easily achieved. With that said, it’s still commendable to hit a hole-in-one, so don’t undervalue that accomplishment either
What is Better than Albatross?
The only thing that is considered better than an albatross is a condor, which involves four strokes under par. This has been achieved twice in professional golf tournaments but remains incredibly rare due to the difficulty involved in achieving it.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, an “albatross” is a goal (very rarely achieved) that all golfers should strive for. Even though incredibly rare, with the right technique and a bit of luck, you could be one of the few people to make a double eagle. So good luck out there!
