Golf has its own unique language, and understanding the terms can significantly enhance your appreciation for the game. One such term is “bogey.” But what exactly is a bogey in golf, and how did this quirky term become part of the sport’s lexicon? This article delves into the history, meaning, and significance of the term “bogey” in golf.
The Origin of “Bogey”
The term “bogey” has a fascinating history, dating back to the late 19th century in Great Britain. It’s intertwined with the early development of handicapping systems and the standardization of golf scoring.
In 1890, Hugh Rotherham, the Secretary of the Coventry Golf Club, proposed a system of standardizing the number of shots a good golfer should take on each hole. He called this the “ground score.” Dr. Browne, Secretary of the Great Yarmouth Club, adopted the idea, introducing it to match play competitions.
During one competition, a golfer, possibly Major Charles Wellman, exclaimed to Dr. Browne that “This player of yours is a regular Bogey man.” This exclamation likely referred to the popular Edwardian music hall song, “Hush! Hush! Hush! Here Comes the Bogey Man,” referencing a goblin or devil. Golfers at the time were essentially playing against “Mister Bogey,” a representation of the ideal score. These competitions were the earliest form of handicap or Stableford events.
The term “Colonel Bogey” emerged later at the United Services Club at Gosport. Because all the members held military rank, “Mister Bogey” was promoted to the honorary rank of Colonel.
From Ground Score to Over Par
Originally, “bogey” represented the ideal score a good golfer should achieve on a hole. However, as golf equipment and techniques improved, scores began to fall. The original “bogey” score became increasingly difficult to maintain as the standard.
This is where the American influence comes in. While the British clung to the original meaning of “bogey” as a standard score, American golfers began to use the term to describe a score of one over par. This shift in meaning caused some confusion, but eventually, the American definition prevailed.
Bogey vs. Par: Understanding the Difference
To fully grasp what a bogey is, it’s essential to understand the concept of “par.” “Par” represents the number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to take to complete a hole. This number is determined by the hole’s length and difficulty.
- Par 3: A short hole that a skilled golfer should be able to reach the green in one shot and then take two putts to finish.
- Par 4: A medium-length hole that a skilled golfer should be able to reach the green in two shots and then take two putts to finish.
- Par 5: A long hole that a skilled golfer should be able to reach the green in three shots and then take two putts to finish.
Therefore, a bogey is simply a score of one stroke over par on a hole.
Why Understanding Bogey Matters
Understanding the term “bogey” and its place in the scoring system is crucial for several reasons:
- Following the Game: Knowing what a bogey is allows you to easily follow the scores of professional golfers and understand the significance of their performance.
- Calculating Handicaps: Handicaps are designed to level the playing field between golfers of different skill levels. Understanding par and bogey helps in understanding how handicaps are calculated and used.
- Improving Your Own Game: By tracking your scores relative to par, you can identify areas where you need to improve your game. Knowing you consistently bogey certain types of holes can help you tailor your practice sessions.
Other Golfing Terms: Birdies, Eagles, and Beyond
The world of golf scoring doesn’t stop at bogeys and pars. Here’s a quick look at some other common terms:
-
Birdie: One stroke under par.
-
Eagle: Two strokes under par.
-
Albatross (or Double Eagle): Three strokes under par.
-
Condor (or Double Albatross): Four strokes under par (extremely rare).
-
Double Bogey: Two strokes over par.
-
Triple Bogey: Three strokes over par.
Conclusion
“Bogey” started as a standard score to measure against and evolved into a common term signifying one over par. Understanding What Is A Bogey In Golf is more than just knowing a term; it is understanding a small part of the history and scoring nuances within the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting, understanding the meaning of “bogey” will enhance your experience on the course and make you a more knowledgeable fan of the game.
