

SMS - 325 Yard Par 4 Scoring Average, Scratch, 10, and 20
10 snips Sep 13, 2025
Explore the intriguing dynamics of scoring on a 325-yard par 4, where skill levels greatly influence performance. The hosts engage in a lively debate about their own averages, revealing the realities golfers face compared to expectations. Discover how tee placement can make or break a birdie attempt and learn the nuances of scoring averages across different hole types. Personal anecdotes add a relatable twist, highlighting the challenges and triumphs on the golf course.
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Short Par-4s Aren't Automatic Birdies
- A 325-yard par 4 averages about par for scratch players and worse for higher handicaps. 10-index players average ~4.62 and 20-index players average ~5.20 on that hole length.
- Short par 4s often feel gettable but across courses and conditions they still produce over-par averages for many amateurs.
Amateurs Misremember Performance
- Amateurs overestimate how often they birdie short holes due to memory bias and selective recall. Mark Crossfield notes players hang on to good shots and forget poorer outcomes, skewing perceptions.
- Looking at real shot data corrects false beliefs about performance on supposedly easy holes.
Value A Par On Short Par-4s
- Accept that par on an 'easy' par 4 is a good result and don't beat yourself up for it. Treat par as a strong outcome, especially if you're a 10-12 index player.
- Play smart from the tee and prioritize avoiding big numbers over forcing birdie attempts on short par 4s.