How to Score Better on Par 5s Without Hitting It Further
Par 5s are the most misplayed holes in amateur golf. Most golfers treat them as an opportunity to go for the green in two, when the smarter play is to build a birdie or par from three well-placed shots. The golfer who consistently makes par or better on par 5s has a significant advantage over the field.
Key Takeaways
- •Plan three well-placed shots rather than trying to reach the green in two.
- •Lay up to a specific distance that leaves you a full shot, not a vague area.
- •A tee shot in the fairway is worth more than a long drive in the rough.
- •Going for the green in two is only correct when all conditions are favourable.
The three-shot par 5 strategy
The most reliable way to score well on a par 5 is to plan three shots that leave you with a straightforward approach. Shot one: a controlled tee shot to the widest part of the fairway. Shot two: a mid-iron or fairway wood to a comfortable distance from the green. Shot three: a full approach from a clean lie. This strategy produces far more pars and birdies than the aggressive two-shot approach.
When to go for the green in two
Going for the green in two is correct when you have a clean lie in the fairway, the carry is well within your reliable range, the landing area is large, and the penalty for missing is small. If any of these conditions is not met, the three-shot strategy is almost always better.
The lay-up zone
If you are laying up on a par 5, choose a specific distance that leaves you a full shot into the green. Most golfers lay up to a vague area and leave themselves an awkward half-shot. Instead, identify your most reliable full-swing distance -- often 90 to 110 yards -- and lay up to exactly that distance.
Par 5 tee shot strategy
The tee shot on a par 5 does not need to be your longest drive. It needs to be in the fairway. A 240-yard drive in the fairway is worth more than a 270-yard drive in the rough. From the rough, your second shot options are severely limited and the risk of a big number increases significantly.
How to avoid the big number on a par 5
The big number on a par 5 almost always comes from a combination of a poor tee shot followed by an ambitious recovery. If your tee shot misses the fairway, the correct response is a conservative recovery that puts you back in play. From there, you can still make par with two good shots and a putt.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lay-up distance on a par 5?
The best lay-up distance is whatever leaves you a full shot with a club you are comfortable with. For most golfers, this is between 80 and 120 yards. Identify your most reliable distance and lay up to it consistently.
Should high handicappers ever go for the green in two on a par 5?
Rarely. The risk of a penalty or a very difficult third shot usually outweighs the potential reward. The three-shot strategy produces more consistent scores for high handicappers.