Page type: Glossary / definition
Free tool: Open the calculator →
Meaning
A Triple Bogey is a Hole Score three strokes higher than Par. For example, scoring 7 on a par-4 hole is a Triple Bogey. It describes the result on that hole, not a player's total Round Score.
How it matters in match play
In Match Play, a Triple Bogey is simply the player's Hole Score for that hole. The hole is decided by comparing each player's strokes, including any applicable handicap strokes, with the opponent's score; the label itself does not create a separate match-play penalty or scoring rule. A triple bogey can therefore win, halve or lose a hole depending on the opponent's score.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Triple Bogey |
| Category | scoring |
| Applicable rule | No dedicated official rule established |
| Related concepts | Par, Bogey, Double Bogey, Hole Score, Score Relative to Par |
Worked example
On a par-4 hole, Alex takes 7 strokes and Ben takes 6, so Alex has made a Triple Bogey and Ben wins the hole by one stroke; this is an illustrative example, not historical player data.
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
What score is a Triple Bogey on a par-3 hole?
A 6 is a Triple Bogey on a par-3 hole because it is three strokes above par (3 + 3 = 6).
Does a Triple Bogey have a special rule in Match Play?
No. Triple Bogey is ordinary scoring language, not a separate match-play procedure. The hole result still follows the applicable form of play and the players' scores, including any valid handicap strokes.
Is a Triple Bogey the maximum score for handicap purposes?
Not generally. For a player with an established Handicap Index, the World Handicap System limits a hole score for handicap purposes to net double bogey: par plus two strokes plus any handicap stroke received on that hole. That adjusted handicap score can differ from the player's gross Triple Bogey.
Can a Triple Bogey be used as a maximum score in a competition?
Yes, a Committee may set a Maximum Score cap related to par, such as Triple Bogey, but that is a stated competition condition rather than a universal cap. Check the Terms of the Competition before picking up or recording the cap.
Is a Triple Bogey three over par for the whole round?
Usually the term refers to one hole: three strokes over that hole's par. A player's Round Score can be three over par overall, but that is a round total and does not by itself mean the player made a Triple Bogey on a particular hole.
Does a Triple Bogey always lose the hole in Match Play?
No. It depends on the opponent's score. A Triple Bogey can still win if the opponent scores higher, or halve the hole if both players have the same score, although those outcomes are less common in ordinary play.