Par-3 golf courses are popping up everywhere, and longtime golf analyst and teacher Peter Kostis thinks we need more.
In a recent episode of the “Kostis & McCord: Off Their Rockers” podcast, a GOLF production, the veteran TV broadcasters touched on the evolution of par-3 courses and their importance in growing the game.
The podcast was recorded at Pinehurst Resort in Pinehurst, NC, which hosted the 2024 US Open a few months ago. The Cradle, the resort's short course, was used as a driving range that week.
“You can go out and blow your brains out at Pinehurst No. 2, come in and have a cocktail, come out and play The Cradle with your friends and tell jokes and laugh and have fun,” Kostis said. “It's a great way to grow the game and it's great for starting golfers and kids.
“Mom or dad wants to play with their kids, and kids can't go far, so what better place to take them than a par-3,” he continued. “I honestly think par-3s are going to grow in popularity and they're a way to grow the game because you're getting the next generation of golfers.”
Kostis also said they are ready to keep older golfers participating in competitive games (without requiring a handicap).
“We're not going to go to the back tee at Whisper Rock and compete with any of the tour players, but from 150 yards and in, we can compete and we don't need to. [strokes],” he said. “So now you will find that the competition is actually getting better and the age difference is getting smaller.”
You can check out the full episode of “Kostis & McCord: Off their Rockers” below.
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