One feat that stands out in golf is scoring an ace or a hole-in-one shot. Due to its elusiveness, making this shot is considered an exceptional achievement for any golfer. For a professional, the hole-in-one odds are about 1 in 2500. It is even less likely for amateurs, who have approximately a 0.00008 probability of scoring the shot.
This article explores everything to know about the hole-in-one feat, covering the following key aspects:
As stated earlier, hole in one chances are incredibly slim. It is because, to make the shot, a player must hit the golf ball from the teeing ground into the cup in one stroke. However, other rules must be followed for the shot to be deemed valid.
According to the U.S. Golf Register, a hole in one is valid in the following instances:
Notably, the presence of a temporary tee or putting green does not impact the validity of a hole in one. However, it is crucial to note the length of the hole at the time of the achievement.
Sinking a hole in one is one of the most coveted moments in golfing. Every amateur or professional golfer aspires to achieve it at least once in their lifetime. However, this remarkable feat requires significant golfing prowess. This is because the odds for golf hole in one depend on the combination of the distance to the hole, the layout of the course, and external factors such as wind and weather conditions. Also, besides skill, the player needs Lady Luck on their side.
For amateur golfers, the chances of hitting a hole in one on a par-3 hole (a standard hole in one) are about one in every 12,750 attempts. In simpler terms, for an amateur golfer, hitting a hole in one is exceptionally rare and almost impossible.
With an advanced skill level, the odds of a pro golfer getting a hole in one differs. The calculations reveal that a pro has a probability of achieving this feat once in every 2500 attempts. Interestingly, this chance improves during professional tournaments.
Scoring a hole in one is rare for an individual golfer, but it becomes even more unlikely when considering groups. Statistically, the odds of two golfers scoring a hole in one in a four-person group during a round are 1.3 million to 1. Likewise, the odds of getting a hole in one is an astonishing 26 million to 1 for 2 golfers in a four-person group hitting the same hole during the same round.
Achieving a hole in one in golf is a personal triumph, and it often involves some traditional obligations that golfers often choose to follow. Some of these include:
Though not mandatory, a common tradition after sinking a hole in one is for the golfer to buy a round of drinks for their fellow players. The odds of hitting a hole in one are pretty low, so a golfer is expected to celebrate this feat among his peers. This celebratory gesture involves treating playing partners to refreshments at the clubhouse.
Registering your hole in one is also optional. However, many golfers choose to do it because it preserves the achievement and might result in recognition or awards from golf associations. Registration includes sharing details like the course, hole number, and witness statements. The option to register a hole in one is available for both amateur and professional golfers, even though the odds of an average golfer getting a hole in one are extremely low.
Out of loyalty to their equipment brands, a golfer may choose to inform the brands about the clubs or balls used to achieve their hole in one feat. It can bring congratulatory messages, recognition, or even small brand gestures. Brands always appreciate the opportunity to identify with this rare feat because it is a suitable means of publicity.
It may include framing the scorecard, keeping the ball, or commissioning a plaque. The odds of a hole in one are incredibly long, so golfers love to preserve the memory as a reminder of their exceptional achievement.
The first documented hole in one was recorded in 1869. Young Tom Morris achieved this remarkable feat at Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland during the 1869 British Open. Since then, golfers worldwide have aimed to replicate the accomplishment.
As mentioned, the significance of the hole in one cannot be overemphasized. It is considered a prestigious achievement in golf, so it is globally recognized and celebrated. Also, the long odds for the hole in one contribute to its esteem, making it a standout moment in a golfer’s career.
Although the hole in one is rare, a few golfers have made their mark in the record books with this outstanding achievement. Let’s talk about some of these accomplishments.
Currently, the longest recorded hole in one was achieved by Mike Crean in Denver on July 4, 2002. He astonishingly hit the hole from a distance of 517 yards. Although the odds of making a hole in one in golf are incredibly slim, Mike has achieved this remarkable feat on 5 occasions.
Did you know that on July 4, 2002 a golfer named Mike Crean teed off with a driver on the 517-yard No. 9 hole at Green Valley Ranch Golf Club in Denver realizing the longest ever 5-Par Ace?🏌️
Automatic video by Algo #golf @PGATOUR @WGCMexico pic.twitter.com/aqCvjp0oWN— Algo (@algotv) March 5, 2018
In 2019, Gus Andreone, at 103, became the oldest player to score a hole in one. This incredible accomplishment occurred at the Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, where he made the shot from 114 yards away. The previous record was held by Elsie McLean, who achieved a hole in one at age 102 in 2007, hitting the hole from 100 yards.
Despite its extreme rarity, Gus recorded this remarkable accomplishment for the eighth time. It is an extraordinary feat, considering that the odds to hit a hole in one once in a golfer’s lifetime are already extremely long.
Achieving the hole in one is usually seen as a demonstration of extreme skill and prowess in golf. However, it is not always down to skills; luck is also a significant factor. It is evidenced by the non-professional golfers who have achieved the feat.
For instance, when considering betting on the most hole in ones record, one would likely visit one of the best odds guaranteed betting sites to put their stake on a professional golfer. Shockingly, this record belongs to Norman Manley, an amateur golfer from California who achieved this feat 59 times.
The first official ace to be scored in golf was credited to Tom Morris. He sunk the first-ever hole in one in 1869, and since then, many more golfers worldwide aspired to achieve the feat.
Young Tom achieved the tournament's first ever hole-in-one by holing out at the 166-yard 8th hole
This historic moment laid the foundation for the special significance of a hole in one in today’s golf world.
Having established how hard it is to achieve once, imagine the odds of getting a hole in one twice. Now, amplify that unlikeliness to an extraordinary level and think about the odds of successfully hitting a hole in one an astonishing 59 times. That’s exactly what Norman Manley did.
An “ace spree” occurs in golf when a player achieves more than one hole in one in a row. In other words, two or more consecutive aces. Some notable instances of this achievement include professional golfer John Hudson in 1971, Norman Manley in 1964, and Sue Prell, the first woman to do so in 1977. As expected, the odds to get a hole in one consecutively are incredibly low. According to Guinness World Records, only 20 such instances have been recorded. In 1962, Dr. Joseph Boydstone came close to achieving three consecutive holes-in-one when he aced the 3rd, 4th, and 9th holes. Rev. Harold Snider also came close in 1976 on the 8th, 13th, and 14th holes.
The hole in one is considered the rarest score in golf. While an element of luck applies, the chances slim further down as the skill level decreases. For instance, when considering the odds of hole in one by handicap levels, a plus handicap golfer is pegged at 3000 to 1. While that possibility is incredibly thin, golfers in this category are 4 times more likely to achieve a hole in one than a mid-handicapper. Hence, the impressiveness of this feat remains unparalleled.
An albatross is when a golfer scores a hole in three strokes under par. Generally, the chances of sinking an ace are lower when compared to an albatross. That is why many punters prefer the latter to hole in one golf betting options. However, it is still essential to note that the albatross is also a highly uncommon and exceptional feat in golf, considering the percentage of players who achieve it versus those who don’t.
Also, there are scenarios where an albatross can also be an ace. For example, a golfer completing a par-4 hole in one stroke is considered an albatross.
Below are some interesting facts about the hole in one:
The hole-in-one in golf is a rare achievement showcasing a golfer’s skill, precision, and luck. This guide has covered every detail of this remarkable feat, addressing its rules, history, significance, and what to do if you score it. Most importantly, we thoroughly explored how to read odds, covering the chances of scoring a hole-in-one for amateurs and professionals under different circumstances.
