Birdies In Golf: History And Meaning Explained
In golf, par is the number of golf strokes a player should need to complete a hole. A birdie is when a player completes a hole by scoring one less stroke than par. For example, if you are golfing on a par-3 hole, you would need to complete it in 2 strokes to score a birdie.
Recording birdies requires skill from the time you tee off to when you sink your putt. From amateurs to the pros, birdies are the goal for every golfer. Up next, we go over the history of the term birdie and how you can score one.
Where Did The 'Birdie' Golf Term Come From?
The term 'birdie' originated in the United States. In 19th-century American slang, 'bird' referred to anyone or anything that was wonderful.
In 1903, Abner “Ab” Smith hit a long approach shot that landed within inches of the cup during a foursomes match played at the Atlantic City (N.J.) CC. The result caused one of the group’s members to exclaim, “That’s a bird of a shot!”
As time went on, Ab claimed it actually happened in 1899 and that he both made the birdie and was the one that said, "That's a bird of a shot!" Whenever it actually happened, that is the story of where the term “birdie” in golf originated.
Source: Golf Digest
How To Score A Birdie In Golf
Scoring a birdie usually comes from experience and skill, but sometimes you can get just get lucky.
Here are some tips that might help:
Use golf clubs that are designed to get you the most out of each swing
Clean your golf clubs and balls to maximize performance
Practice your golf swing at a driving range or a par-3 course
Know your average golf club distances
Wear proper golf attire that provides comfort and functionality
Take golf lessons to improve your game
Hit a long and straight drive off the tee to set yourself up for success
Know which golf shot and club to use on each hole