There cannot be any golfer who really enjoys playing a long par-3. Even for professional players, a long par-3 is something they would rather avoid and therefore, it is little surprise that beginner and amateur players see them as troublesome.
On a short par-3, you will use an iron and if the flag is in the middle of the green or close to the centre, you will aim straight for the hole. However, when playing a long par-3, beginner golfers are often required to choose a longer club, such as a wood and this can lead to problems in both accuracy and distance control.
When playing a long par-3, always check the position of the flag first. For many players, the best they can hope for on a long par-3 is a par and so that should be the aim. You should always try and leave yourself an easy second shot, even if you are not on the green.
If you believe there is a good chance you are not going to get your ball on the green, try and leave it on the opposite side to where the pin is located. If you leave it on the short side and find your ball in the rough or a bunker, you will be left with a very tough shot to get the ball close to the hole.
If you are having to take out the 3 wood or driver to get the ball on the green, beware of over hitting the ball and landing behind the green. Many par-3 greens will slope from back to front and if you leave your ball behind the green, you will be left with a very tricky second shot.
If you cannot decide between two clubs when playing a long par-3 and there is no water or major hazard in-front of the green, always go for the shorter one as an uphill putt or approach short is easier than playing a shot downhill.
Finally, concentrate on the things you can control when playing a long par-3. You cannot adjust the position of the pin or make the hole shorter. However, what you can do is think of a clear strategy which matches your strengths to make par on the hole. Focus on your swing technique and complete your pre-shot routine.
Long par-3 are never nice holes to play but if approached in the correct manner, you can at least make a par and walk away happy.
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