Statistically speaking, par 3’s are generally the most difficult holes to par. Remember these important factors the next time you are standing on the tee box of a par 3:

• First of all, don’t try to be a hero. Many players let their egos get the best of them. They want to be able to tell their buddies they hit a 7 iron instead of a 6, 9 instead of an 8, etc. It doesn’t matter what club you hit off the tee if you can’t hit the green or par the hole. When there is any doubt, take the longer club and make a smooth, easy swing.

• Go for the large part of the green, away from any hills, knolls, or undulations. The key is to hit the green and 2-putt. If you hit your ball to an undulation, it can kick anywhere and roll for quite a distance. You have a better chance of a 2-putt from the safe part of the green.

• Hit away from any trouble. If there is water on the right of the green, aim all the way over to the left side. If there is a canyon short of the green, take an extra club to ensure you get over safely. It is better to stay far away from the trouble than to find yourself in it.

• Don’t underestimate the wind. Just because you might not be able to feel it on the tee box, a good breeze could still be blowing. Look at the tops of the trees to see if leaves and branches are moving. That will give you an idea as to what kind of wind you are really dealing with.

BETTER RESULTS ON PAR 3’S,  Photo by Paul Nasri