Is There A Par 2 In Golf?

Is there a par 2 in golf? The USGA defines par as a hole that is between a par 3 and a par 6. Therefore a par 2 would not be considered regulation; however, there are some instances when you will see a par 2. If you are wondering where you might see one in golf and exactly how these should be played, we have you covered.

Are there any par 2 holes in golf?

The par 2 holes will be seen in one of two places, on a miniature golf course or on a pitch and putt style golf course. USGA rated golf courses used for tournament play and events will not  include a par 2. The USGA considers a par 3 to a par 6 to be regulation.  

Mini Golf

The par for most mini-golf holes is two. Of course, miniature and regulation golf are not at all the same, but this could be an instance where you hear the term Par 2 referred to. Miniature golf is a fun game but requires a different skill set than traditional golf. Make sure you're great at putting. Mini golf also helps you with putting feel and distance control for the real golf course.  

Pitch and Putt

A pitch and putt golf course is one where players can work on their short game. With a pitch and putt, you will hit the ball up towards the green and try and make the putt. Some of these holes are par 2, requiring a player to get up and down. Playing at a short course like this can help you score around the greens.  

Why are there no par 2’s in golf?

Have you ever found it a bit odd that there are no par 2 golf holes? The reason there are no par 3 golf holes is that the USGA does not consider this to be a regulation length hole. In addition, the par 2 is a bit too much of a challenge for players. The entire premise of the game of golf would be completely different if you were expected to one putt each green. With a par 2, it would require one great shot on the green and one putt just to stay at par, and that is too difficult. 

Conclusion

To sum it up, there aren't any par 2 golf holes on the USGA approved and tournament golf courses. There are par 2 golf holes on some pitch and putt courses and in mini golf, but you won't find it on a regular golf hole. Do you know for a regular golf course that has a par 2 despite everything I mentioned? Let me know over email and I'll be more than glad to write about it!😉