What is a Condor in Golf? The Ultimate Guide

Have you ever witnessed a golf shot so incredible, it seemed to defy the laws of physics? Or struggled to grasp the nuanced scoring system beyond the familiar birdie and eagle? The world of golf terminology can be perplexing, particularly when encountering rare feats like the elusive condor.

What is a condor in golf? A condor in golf is an exceptionally rare score of four strokes under par on a single hole. This astonishing feat is most commonly achieved with a hole-in-one on a par-5, but could theoretically occur with a score of 2 on a par-6 or 3 on a par-7.

As a seasoned golf analyst with over 15 years of experience dissecting professional and amateur play, I’ve only ever seen a handful of condors discussed, let alone witnessed. This comprehensive guide will demystify the condor, exploring its history, likelihood, and the astonishing players who have achieved this ultimate golfing accomplishment. We’ll cover everything from the origins of the term to the odds of making one, and how it compares to other scoring achievements.

Key Facts:
* Rarity: Condors are so rare that most bookmakers don’t even offer odds on them occurring.
* Par-5 Ace: The vast majority of recorded condors are holes-in-one on par-5 holes.
* Par-6 Exception: There’s one recorded instance of a condor on a par-6 hole, achieved by Kevin Pon in 2020.
* Bird-Themed Naming: The term “condor” follows the golf tradition of naming under-par scores after birds, increasing in size with the rarity of the score.
* Low Probability: While the odds of a hole-in-one are around 12,500 to 1, the chances of a condor are astronomically higher, in the millions.

What Exactly Defines a Condor in Golf?

A condor represents the pinnacle of single-hole scoring achievements in golf. A condor is defined as a score of four strokes under par on an individual hole. This means achieving what seems nearly impossible – reaching the green and sinking the putt in significantly fewer strokes than the hole’s par rating.

While theoretically possible on par-5, par-6, and even par-7 holes, the overwhelming majority of condors are achieved as a hole-in-one on a par-5. This is because the sheer distance required to reach the green in one shot on a par-5 is immense, demanding both incredible power and pinpoint accuracy.

• Example: A golfer tees off on a 580-yard par-5 hole. With a perfectly struck drive that combines distance and trajectory, the ball lands on the green and rolls directly into the cup for a hole-in-one. This extraordinary shot is a condor.

The term “condor” itself is a continuation of the avian theme used in golf scoring. Just as a birdie (one under par) and an eagle (two under par) are named after birds, the albatross (three under par) and the condor (four under par) continue the pattern, with the bird’s size reflecting the increasing rarity of the score.

How Does a Condor Compare to Other Golf Scores?

Understanding the hierarchy of golf scores helps to appreciate the sheer magnitude of a condor. It’s a feat that surpasses even the highly coveted albatross. Here’s a breakdown of the scoring terms:

• Bogey: One stroke over par.
• Par: The expected number of strokes for a skilled golfer to complete the hole.
• Birdie: One stroke under par.
• Eagle: Two strokes under par.
• Albatross (Double Eagle): Three strokes under par. This is usually achieved by holing out in two shots on a par-5.
• Condor: Four strokes under par.

As you can see, the condor sits at the very top of this list, representing a scoring achievement so rare that it’s almost mythical. To put it into perspective, consider that a professional golfer might score multiple birdies and even an occasional eagle in a round, but an albatross is a career highlight, and a condor is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

What are the Odds of Achieving a Condor?

The odds of achieving a condor are, frankly, astronomical. While precise calculations are difficult due to the many variables involved, it’s safe to say the chances are in the millions to one.

According to the PGA of America, a hole-in-one is scored approximately once in every 3,500 rounds of golf. However, this statistic encompasses all holes, including par-3s, which are significantly shorter and easier to ace than par-5s. The odds of an albatross are estimated to be around 6 million to 1. Since a condor typically requires a hole-in-one on a par-5, the odds are exponentially higher.

Key Takeaway: The extremely low probability of a condor underscores its legendary status. It’s a testament to the perfect storm of skill, power, favorable conditions, and, undoubtedly, a significant element of luck.

Have There Been Any Recorded Condors in Golf History?

Yes, despite their extreme rarity, there have been a handful of confirmed condors in golf history. While the exact number varies slightly depending on the source, most agree that there have been around six recorded instances.

According to National Club Golfer, five of these condors were achieved via a hole-in-one on a par-5 hole. The sixth, and perhaps most unique, was recorded by Kevin Pon in 2020 at Lake Chabot Golf Course in Oakland, California. Pon achieved his condor on the 667-yard par-6 18th hole, holing out with his second shot.

One notable example, described at Golf Compendium and other sites, occurred in 1962, when Larry Bruce achieved a condor on a 480-yard par-5 at Hope Country Club in Arkansas. He cut the corner of the dogleg hole, using driver and going over trees.

Tip: These historical examples demonstrate that while incredibly rare, condors are possible, representing the absolute peak of golfing achievement.

What Types of Holes are Most Conducive to Condors?

While theoretically possible on any hole with a par rating of 5 or higher, certain hole characteristics make a condor slightly more attainable (though still incredibly unlikely).

• Dogleg Par-5s: Holes that bend significantly (doglegs) can present an opportunity for a long hitter to “cut the corner,” effectively shortening the distance to the green. This requires a powerful and accurate drive that can carry over hazards or obstacles.
• Downhill Par-5s: Downhill holes can provide extra roll for the ball, increasing the overall distance achieved with the drive. This can bring the green within reach for exceptionally long hitters.
• Firm Fairways and Greens: Harder playing surfaces can also contribute to increased roll, potentially maximizing distance.
• Favorable Wind Conditions: A tailwind can provide a significant boost to distance, making a hole-in-one on a par-5 more feasible.

It’s important to note, however, that even with these favorable conditions, achieving a condor remains an extraordinarily difficult feat.

Is a Condor the Same as a Triple Eagle?

No, a condor is not the same as a triple eagle. While both terms represent extremely rare scores, they refer to different levels of under-par achievement. A condor is four under par, while some sources say a triple eagle would be another name for an albatross (3-under).

The consistent terminology is:
* Eagle: 2-under
* Albatross/Double Eagle: 3-under
* Condor: 4-under

Why is it Called a “Condor”?

The term “condor” follows the established pattern of naming under-par scores in golf after birds. This tradition is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century.

LiveAbout explains that the use of “birdie” for one-under-par led to the adoption of “eagle” for two-under-par, and subsequently “albatross” for three-under-par. The condor, a large and majestic bird of prey, was a natural choice to represent the even rarer score of four-under-par. The size of the birds represents the increasing rarity and impressiveness of the score.

Has a Condor Ever Been Achieved in a Professional Tournament?

While condors have been achieved in casual play, there is no confirmed record of a condor occurring during a major professional golf tournament, such as those on the PGA Tour or European Tour.

The immense pressure, course setups designed for championship play, and the typically longer and more challenging layouts of professional tournaments make a condor virtually impossible. It’s highly improbable we would see one in this context. A Quora post discussing this highlights the minimum length requirements for par-5 holes in professional men’s golf, making a hole-in-one exceptionally unlikely.

How Do Golfers React to Achieving a Condor?

Understandably, achieving a condor is a moment of pure elation and disbelief for any golfer. It’s a feat so rare that it’s likely to be the defining moment of their golfing life. Reactions are, reportedly, disbelief.

The stories of golfers who have achieved condors often describe a mix of shock, excitement, and a sense of surreal accomplishment. It’s a moment that transcends the ordinary and enters the realm of golfing legend. It should also be noted that the chances of any golfer making one in their lifetime is very, very low.

An article in Essentially Sports highlights the sheer rarity of this moment.

FAQs About What is a Condor in Golf

What is the difference between an albatross and a condor?

An albatross is three strokes under par on a single hole, while a condor is four strokes under par. An albatross can be scored on a par 4 or 5, while a condor requires at least a par 5.

Has anyone ever had a hole-in-one on a par-6?

Yes, the most recent condor was achieved on a par-6.

What is the rarest score in golf?

The condor is the rarest score in golf.

How many condors have been recorded in golf?

Approximately six condors have been recorded.

What are the odds of making a condor?

The odds of making a condor are estimated to be in the millions to one.

What is a birdie in golf?

A birdie is a score of one stroke under par on a single hole.

What is an eagle in golf?

An eagle is a score of two strokes under par on a single hole.

What is a bogey in golf?

A bogey is a score of one stroke over par on a single hole.

Can you get a condor on a par-4 hole?

No, a condor is only possible on holes with a par of 5 or higher.

What is the origin of the term “condor” in golf?

The term “condor” follows the golf tradition of naming under-par scores after birds, with the size of the bird increasing with the rarity of the score.

Summary

The condor in golf represents the absolute pinnacle of scoring achievement. It’s a feat of extraordinary skill, power, and luck, so rare that it’s almost mythical. While the vast majority of golfers will never come close to achieving a condor, its existence serves as a testament to the incredible possibilities within the game. It’s a reminder that even on the most challenging courses, under the most demanding conditions, the seemingly impossible can sometimes become reality. Will you ever witness, or even achieve, this incredibly rare feat? The odds are astronomically low, but the very possibility adds another layer of intrigue to the already captivating world of golf.