GIR
StatisticsGreens in Regulation (GIR) is a golf statistic that counts the holes where your ball is on the putting green in two strokes fewer than par: in 1 shot on a par 3, 2 on a par 4 and 3 on a par 5. Your GIR percentage is the share of holes where you did it.
How GIR is counted
| Hole | On the green in |
|---|---|
| Par 3 | 1 stroke |
| Par 4 | 2 strokes or fewer |
| Par 5 | 3 strokes or fewer |
- The ball must be on the putting surface. The fringe or collar does not count, even if you then putt from there.
- Reaching the green in fewer strokes, like driving a par 4, also counts.
- GIR percentage = greens hit in regulation ÷ holes played × 100. Hitting 6 greens in an 18-hole round is 33%.
Why GIR is useful
GIR separates your long game from your short game. A green in regulation leaves you two putts for par, so a low GIR usually points to the tee shot or approach, while a decent GIR with high scores usually points to putting. It pairs naturally with fairways hit (tee shots) and putts per green in regulation (putting).
When you miss a green, the related statistic is scrambling or up-and-down: how often you still make par.
How to raise your GIR
- Know your typical carry distance with each club, not your best one, and choose the club that carries the front edge comfortably.
- Aim at the middle of the green rather than the flag on long approaches.
- Check the gaps in your bag so you are not stuck between clubs on common approach distances.
Tracking GIR with Golfonaut
Golfonaut on Apple Watch records your round and its performance graphs include green hits, alongside fairways hit, putts and distance per club. Detailed statistics are part of the optional Golfonaut Private Club subscription.
Related tools and guides
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