In golf, a hole-in-one is a magical once-in-a-lifetime thrill. But holing out a long par-4 in a single shot is a near-impossible feat even for pros.
So when this golf unicorn actually happens, what do you call it? Unlike the standard “eagle” for an ace on a par-3, there is no single agreed name for a par-4 hole-in-one in the sport.
This bizarre debate has divided golf insiders for decades between formal terminology and popular usage. On one side are traditionalists insisting on “double eagle”, in keeping with naming conventions.
On the other are fans pushing for the vivid metaphor “albatross” to capture its rarity. This article will delve into golf’s peculiar naming conundrum, from the history to the conflicting arguments on both sides.
While a par-4 feat of this magnitude has no simple moniker, its elusive name aptly reflects how stupendously tough and memorable this shot is for the few who achieve it.
What Is a Hole in One Called on a Par-4?
For so many reasons people get confused about what is a hole-in-one on a par 4 called. In golf, a hole-in-one occurs when a player hits the ball from the tee box into the cup on their first stroke on a given hole.
Typically, holes in one happen on par 3 holes, as these are shorter holes designed to be reachable in one shot by professional players. Holes in one on longer par 4 or par 5 holes are extremely rare.
When a golfer does make a hole-in-one on a par 4 hole, it is referred to as a “double eagle” or an “albatross”. This is because the golfer has completed a par 4 hole in 2 shots under par.
A hole-in-one on a par 4 requires an extremely long and accurate shot to reach the green and also requires the ball to find the cup on the fly.
Due to the difficulty, double eagles are much rarer accomplishments in golf compared to a standard hole-in-one on a par 3.
Making a double eagle is an exceptionally rare feat that only a handful of professional golfers have ever accomplished, requiring extreme skill and some luck to achieve.
The Rare Achievement of a Hole-in-One on Par 4
Here is a more detailed explanation of the rare achievement of making a hole-in-one on a par 4 hole in golf:
Par 4 holes are longer holes designed to be reached in two shots by professional players. They range from 250 yards to over 500 yards. Making a hole-in-one requires reaching the green from the tee in one shot.