REVEALED: PGA Tour average CARRY DISTANCES - how do YOURS compare?!

How far do you hit each of your clubs? See how you compare to the average PGA Tour pro.

average tour carry distance

Ever wondered how far the average PGA Tour pro carries the ball with each of the clubs in their bag? Well you're in luck as the table below gives you the latest numbers from the circuit. 

Okay, not everyone hits the ball as far as the likes of Bryson DeChambeau - who incredibly once carried a drive last season 400 yards - but the below list at least gives you a broader idea as to how far the average PGA Tour pro is carrying their golf ball in 2021. 

REVEALED: PGA Tour average CARRY DISTANCES - how do YOURS compare?!

I know for one that GolfMagic Equipment Editor Alex Lodge, who plays off a low single-figure handicap, can hit the below numbers for fun - so some of you guys and girls out there may also be in the same boat. 

Personally speaking, as a 14-handicap hacker, my total distances equate to the current carry distances of the average PGA Tour pro. But with a dodgy back and a few grey hairs starting to appear now, I will take that. 

See how your carry numbers compare to the world's best on the PGA Tour in the table below, starting with the driver and moving down to the pitching wedge. 

REVEALED: PGA Tour average CARRY DISTANCES - how do YOURS compare?!

PGA TOUR AVERAGE CARRY DISTANCES 2021

DRIVER - 275 YARDS

3 WOOD - 243 YARDS

5 WOOD - 230 YARDS

HYBRID - 225 YARDS

3 IRON - 212 YARDS

4 IRON - 203 YARDS

5 IRON - 194 YARDS

6 IRON - 183 YARDS

7 IRON - 172 YARDS

8 IRON - 160 YARDS

9 IRON - 148 YARDS

PW - 136 YARDS

Stats: GOLFTV

How do your carry numbers compare to the averages on the PGA Tour? Come and share your thoughts over on our social media channels - Facebook, Instagram and Twitter - or head over to our YouTube channel.

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How Far Do Pro Golfers Hit Each Club? A 2022 Guide

Graeme Hay

Written by Graeme Hay | Last Updated: 12/03/2024

average tour carry distance

When you watch the PGA Tour or any major championship on TV it is hard not to notice how far pro golfers hit the ball.

Their drives seem to always go miles and I don’t know about you but I’m always checking myself to think whether I indeed heard the commentator correctly that they are actually hitting that high an iron for that 200+ yard approach shot.

So just to confirm what we are indeed up against we took a detailed look at just how far the top pros are hitting their clubs.

On average pros drive the ball a total of 296.6 yards (yds) according to official PGA Shotlink data. They hit a 3-wood an average carry distance of 249 yds, a 5-wood 235 yds and 3-hybrids 230 yds. 3-irons average 217 yds, 4-irons 208 yds, 5-irons 199 yds, 6-irons 188 yds, 7-irons 177 yds, 8-irons 164 yds and 9-irons 153 yds.

These high-level numbers of course don’t always tell the whole story as the pros like us are faced with an infinite variety of golf shots which don’t always mean they are hitting each club as far as they possibly can for every shot.

But if you take the averages over a season you are going to get more than a good idea of how far the pros are hitting each club.

What is fascinating also though as you dig more into the figures is the distance control options the best players in the world have with almost every club in their bag!

Bryson DeChambeau hitting a wood

How Far Do Pros Hit Their Driver and Woods?

When it comes to talking about distance in golf the easiest and most obvious place to start is of course always with the longest club in the golf bag – the driver.

And as it is highly unlikely even the best pros in the world never want to hit their driver as far as they can so it is clearly the club we are going to get the best idea of the maximum distance they hit the ball.

So how far do pros drive?

PGA Tour players hit their driver a ‘total’ of 296.6 yards on average with a ‘carry’ distance of 284.3 yards according to official 2022 Shotlink data. The longest player hits it 320 yards on average and the longest recorded drive in 2022 is 460 yards. On the LPGA Tour the top pros hit their driver an average of 257.7 yards.

When it comes to how far the pros hit a 3 wood and the other longer clubs in the bag including their hybrids the distance analysis gets a bit more complicated because clearly the pros are starting to use these clubs for a wider variety type of shots than they do for their driver.

The pros, like the rest of us, will be hitting a driver as far as they can 99% of the time but when it comes to their 3-wood, 5-wood and hybrids they can be using those clubs off the tee and for approach shots and will not always be aiming for their maximum yardage with those clubs.

The best distance comparison we have for those clubs is therefore the ‘carry distance’. In other words the distance from where they hit the ball to the point of impact on the ground.

On average PGA Tour pros hit a 3-wood a ‘carry’ distance of 249 yards. By comparison a 5-wood carries 235 yards and hit a 3 hybrid, which measures from 19º to 21º, an average carry distance of 230 yards. On the LPGA Tour the top women pros carry a 3-wood 195 yards, a 5-wood 185 yards and a 7-wood 174 yards on average.

For those of you interested in how these averages compare to individual pros we have listed in the table below the average ‘stock’ carry yardages for a selection of the top pros when it comes to how far they hit their driver.

In the following table the list shows how far a selection of PGA and LPGA Tour pros hit their 3-wood, 5-wood and hybrid clubs.

[Note – If you are interested in what drivers and fairway woods the top 100 PGA Tour players are using check out the in-depth analysis we have done here .]

How Far Do Pros Hit Their Irons? Remember to Take Stock

Looking at how far pros hit their irons is a much easier task these days due to all the tracking technology that exists however it still does not make it an exact science.

And that is for the simple reason that pros will hit all manner of a variety of different shots with their irons, especially for their approach shots, and as such, they will hit the same iron a variety of different distances.

A look at Brooks Koepka’s yardage book below gives us a great insight into this and highlights how many types of shots pros can play with their irons.

average tour carry distance

For example for a 170 yard shot into the green a quick glance at his iron yardages shows he could decide to play either a three-quarter 8-iron or try to hit a 9-iron as far as he can – his ‘max’ distance for that club.

When you account for factors such as wind, elevation, ground conditions and also the context in which the shot is being played Koepka, like all the pros, has a number of options for each iron shot which makes the question of how far he hits each iron a bit more complex than at first you may think.

However the pros have what is called a ‘stock’ yardage for their irons, which equates essentially to the average distance they will hit a full shot with each iron swinging normally.

When we compare these ‘stock yardages’ for irons between the pros we get a consistent view of yardage which we can accurately compare across the players.

On average PGA pros hit a 3-iron a ‘carry’ distance – the distance from strike to point of ground impact – of 217 yards. They hit 4-irons 208 yards and 5-irons 199 yards on average. For 6-irons the average is 188 yards, for 7-irons it is 177 yards and 8-irons, 9-irons and pitching wedges go 164, 153 and 141 yards respectively.

Different pros however clearly hit their irons different distances but in the table below we have listed the ‘stock yardages’ of some of the top pros, including Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, Justin Thomas and Bryson DeChambeau, to let you see how they compare against the average.

And when it comes to how far Tiger Woods, arguably the greatest iron player of all time, hits his irons?

Tiger hits his 3-iron a ‘carry’ distance of 240 yards on average while his 4-iron goes 225 yards and 5-iron 210 yards. When it comes to his mid-irons he hits his 6-iron and 7-iron 195 and 180 yards. As for his short irons his 8-iron yardage is 165, he hits his 9-iron 150 yards and his pitching wedge 135 yards on average.

How Far Do Pros Hit Their Wedges

When it comes to looking at how far the pros hit their wedges the stock yardage they hit each club is again obviously only one of the multiple yardages they can hit the most versatile clubs in any player’s golf bag.

As we can again see from Brooks Koepka’s yardage book above he has 5 different yardages listed for each of his specialist wedges which highlights just how much distance control the best golfers in the world can exert with their wedges.

Another added complication when it comes to comparing the distances that the pros hit their wedges is the differing lofts each of them often carries for seemingly the same club.

Rory McIlroy completed swing with an iron

For example while one pro’s ‘gap wedge’ may be 50º another may choose 53 or even 54º for that same ‘gap wedge’ club and with such a difference in lofts it becomes very difficult to compare with any meaning how far the pros hit the same-named wedge.

Assuming however the pros are hitting ‘standard’ lofted pitching, gap, sand and lob wedges we found the following stock distances for how far the pros hit them .

As a whole PGA pros hit their pitching wedge an average carry distance of 141 yards. They hit 52º gap wedges a stock carry distance of between 126 and 135 yards and carry 56º sand wedges an average distance of 119 to 124 yards. Standard 60º lob wedges meanwhile carry 95 to 105 yards on average.

While these yardages will give you a general guide as to how far pros hit their wedges it is important to remember how particular all the pros are about these clubs especially.

It is vital for them to know exactly how far they hit their wedges with a variety of different types of shots because feel is so important from those short distances, especially at the top level of the game, where a yard or two can make the difference between winning or losing a tournament.

That is why you will find some pros’ wedges measured up to 0.5º or even 0.25º when listed and it is also likely that some of the actual strengths of the wedge lofts they use may in reality be stronger (i.e. a lower loft) or a touch weaker (i.e. a higher loft) than the actual degree loft number shown on their club.

To help however answer the question as well as we can the table below shows the varying distances some of the top pros, including Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson, are hitting their wedges, together with the degrees of loft their clubs are listed at.

Before you go …

While it is great to find out how far the top players are hitting the ball it is even better to know the reasons why they achieve the huge distances they get.

Is it simply down to the fact that they have access to the latest and best equipment or is it something else?

Read our next article to discover the real reasons the pros hit the ball as far as they do, and how you can potentially add 20 to 30 yards to your drives!

How Do Pros Hit the Ball So Far?

Other top articles related to this topic:

  • How Far Should You Hit a Driver? FULL GUIDE By Age, Handicap etc.
  • How Far Does a 3 Wood vs 5 Wood Go? Tee and Approach Shots!
  • How Far Should I Hit My Hybrids? 2 vs 3 vs 4 Hybrid Distances
  • Hybrids vs. Fairway Woods – FULL Distance and Comparison Guide
  • How Far Should I Hit My Irons? By Handicap, Age & Swingspeed
  • How Far Should You Hit Your Wedges? Be Sure to Fill the Gaps!
  • Why Don’t Your Drives Go Far? Slow and Steady Loses the Race
  • How Far Should Your Driver Swingspeed Go? 60 to 120 mph Guide
  • Average Driver Swingspeeds? COMPLETE GUIDE by Age, Handicap etc.
  • Ideal Spin Rate and Launch Angle for Driver? That’s Personal!
  • How Far Should Your Ball Speed Go? 100mph All the Way to 210mph!
  • The PGA Tour’s Rising Driver Ball Speeds Mean One Thing – $$
  • What Should Your Driver Attack Angle Be? Try Not to Be Negative
  • How Much Does Driver Loft Affect Distance? Loft is Dynamic Too!
  • 10 Ways to Get More Distance off The Tee With & Without Speed!
  • What Determines Driver Distance? Skill Triumphs Over All!
  • Are Driving Range Distances Accurate? Golf Balls are a Problem
  • Do All Golf Balls Go the Same Distance? Physics First
  • What Affects Golf Ball Distance? Beware ALL the Uncontrollables!
  • Do Certain Golf Balls Go Further? Brand and Cost Considerations
  • Do Distance Balls Go Further? Marketing Matters

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Golf Club Distances w/ Chart | Averages for Am & Pro Players

Last Updated on July 25, 2021

Golf Club Distances w/ Chart | Averages for Am & Pro Players

Distance is critical in golf. As golfers, we're always striving for more distance off the tee and consistent yardage gaps between the rest of our clubs.

In this guide, we'll break down how far amateur golfers of various skill levels and swing speeds hit each of their clubs to give you an idea of how you stack up. We've also included PGA and LPGA carry distance averages to see how you compare with the pros.

After that, we'll cover what factors affect your golf club distances and explain how to find out how far you hit each club.

Golf Club Distances Table

The table below shows how far golfers of various skill levels and swing speeds hit each club. 

We've included PGA and LPGA carry distance averages of professional golfers that TrackMan gathered . 

For amateur male golfers, we've split them into groups of "short," "mid," and "long" hitters. All distances refer to carry distance (distance until the ball first hits the ground) rather than total distance (carry and roll).

While TrackMan gathered extremely accurate data for LPGA and PGA carry distance averages, good data for amateurs is harder to come by. 

There's a massive gap in skill-level and swing speeds among amateur golfers. Golfers of various handicaps also achieve their handicaps in a variety of ways. A 5-handicap golfer could be a super fast swinger in their athletic prime or a senior golfer who has lost distance over the years.

For our amateur short, mid, and long hitting male amateur distances, we relied on the limited available large sample data and what we've seen personally from loads of amateur golfers.

Because these yardages are for golfers of all ages, junior, middle-aged, and especially senior golfers may find themselves with distances closer to the "Short Hitting Male Amateurs" column. Most young adult to middle-aged male golfers should carry the ball to at least the "Mid-Length Male Amateurs" distances, while faster swingers of these ages can reach the distances in the "Long Male Amateurs" column.

Lastly, aside from LPGA professionals, we didn't include other female golfers in our distance table. There's even less data available for amateur female golfers than for male amateurs. We've also found a more considerable disparity in how far female recreational players hit the ball. Basically, we weren't confident we could provide any accurate/valuable information for female amateurs' distances.

What Affects Distance in Golf

There are a lot of factors that influence your golf club distances.

Club speed is the most significant factor in determining distance .

To illustrate this, look at the correlation of club head speed vs carry distance for PGA Tour players in the scatter plot below:

2020 PGA Tour Players  Average Club Head Speed vs Average Carry Distance

Assuming all other things are equal, more swing speed means more energy that can be transferred from the club to the golf ball, resulting in higher ball speed. Higher ball speed means the ball will travel a further distance.

Factors like impact location on the club face, club path, spin rate, and launch angle also play a large part in how far a ball travels.

Impact Location Golf Iron and Driver Sweet Spot

An impact out of the "sweet spot" of your irons or woods will lead to a higher smash factor than strikes that are too low, too high, off the toe, or off the heel.

Smash factor is a calculation of how well you converted club speed into ball speed (Smash Factor = Ball Speed / Club Speed).

In particular, strikes out of the heel and low strikes can kill distance with the driver.

Strike Location Affect on Ball Speed, Spin Rate, and Distance

If you struggle to consistently hit the ball with or near the sweet spot of your club face, you'll have issues with the consistency of your yardages.

Spin Rate and Club Path

Spin rate plays a large role in how far you'll hit the ball and the shapes of your shots.

A lot of golfers put too much spin on the ball with their driver either because of too much club loft, poor strikes (bad impact location), or poor club face control (the direction the club face is aimed relative to your swing path).

If you feel you're hitting the ball well but should be getting a few more yards, work with a club-fitter to see if your driver has too much loft. The ideal spin rate depends on your club speed , but too much spin will cost you yards.

Slices and hooks are caused by the club face being aimed too open ( slice ) or too closed ( hook ) relative to the club path. This can lead to both too much spin and the ball's spin axis being too strongly left-to-right or right-to-left.

Spin-Tilt Axis Source: ForeSight Sports

If your club face is open (aimed right) relative to your club path, this can both cause too much spin and will cause the ball to spin too left-to-right on its spin axis . You'll lose a lot of yards from a slice as the ball travels left-to-right rather than straight.

Launch Angle

For each club, there is an optimal amount of spin and an optimal launch angle. Launch angle is the angle of a golf ball's initial ascent relative to the ground.

Golf Ball Launch Angle

Launching the ball too high or too low will cost you distance.

While launch angle problems could be due to your swing, they can also be caused by playing the wrong clubs for your swing. If you feel like you're hitting the ball too high or too low, work with a club-fitter to dial in your clubs.

Factors Out of Your Control

There are also factors out of your control that can affect distance, like temperature and altitude.

Every 10 degrees that the temperature rises can easily lead to a couple of yards of additional ball flight with a driver.

If you drive the ball 240 yards at sea level, you will carry it around 255 yards in Denver's mile high altitude.

How to Find Your Distances

If you're looking to better understand how far you hit each club, we'd recommend purchasing a launch monitor or finding a range with a launch monitor.

To get accurate distances, you'll also want to make sure that you're hitting the same golf balls you normally play on the course.

Many golf ranges have cheap, inconsistent, or even balls purposefully made not to fly as far as normal golf balls.

Your typical range ball can easily cost you 10+ yards with the driver, while a limited flight range ball can lose you 30+ yards of distance with driver compared to a premium golf ball.

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average tour carry distance

PGA Tour average carry distances – how do yours compare?

How far do you hit each of your clubs? See how you compare to the average PGA Tour pro.

Ever wondered how far the average PGA Tour pro carries the ball with each of the clubs in their bag? Well you’re in luck as the table below gives you the latest numbers from the circuit.

Okay, not everyone hits the ball as far as the likes of Bryson DeChambeau – who incredibly once carried a drive last season 400 yards – but the below list at least gives you a broader idea as to how far the average PGA Tour pro is carrying their golf ball in 2021.

I know that some of my fellow low handicap golf buddies, who play off a low single-figure handicap, can hit the below numbers for fun – so some of you guys and girls out there may also be in the same boat.

Personally speaking, as a 7-handicap, my total distances are pretty similar to the current carry distances of the average PGA Tour pro. But then there’s the short game, accuracy and consistent ball striking that come in to play that make the big difference.

See how your carry numbers compare to the world’s best on the PGA Tour in the table below, starting with the driver and moving down to the pitching wedge.

PGA TOUR AVERAGE CARRY DISTANCES 2021

DRIVER  – 275 YARDS

3 WOOD  – 243 YARDS

5 WOOD  – 230 YARDS

HYBRID  – 225 YARDS

3 IRON  – 212 YARDS

4 IRON  – 203 YARDS

5 IRON  – 194 YARDS

6 IRON  – 183 YARDS

7 IRON  – 172 YARDS

8 IRON  – 160 YARDS

9 IRON  – 148 YARDS

PW  – 136 YARDS

Stats: GOLFTV

How do your carry numbers compare to the averages on the PGA Tour? Share your numbers and thoughts in the comment section below.

Article originally appeared on: Golfmagic.com

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GolfWRX

Opinion & Analysis

How far should you hit your golf clubs.

average tour carry distance

One of the nice things about having all this new fancy technological equipment like Trackman, Flightscope, ShotLink, etc., at various PGA Tour events is that distance data can be gathered for each of the players.

In case you haven’t come across it already, here are the approximate Trackman carry distance averages for men at the professional level.

Average PGA Tour Carry Distances (yards)

Pretty cool info. Perhaps they hit it farther than you might have thought…or maybe they hit less than you may have been lead to believe based on what you’ve seen on TV, read on the internet, etc.

Since I deal a lot with swing speed training and helping people in general hit the ball farther, a relatively common question I get is, “How far should I hit my clubs for my swing speed?”

Well, since we also know that the average driver swing speed on Tour typically runs around 112 to 113 mph, using a bit of algebra and the above distances we can approximate a guide for how far you could expect to hit the ball (assuming fairly consistent and solid contact) given your personal driver swing speed.

Here are those carry distances.

Approximate Carry Distances by Driver Swing Speed (mph)

Approximate Carry Distances by Driver Swing Speed (mph)

I took the ranges down to 60 and 70 mph because those are swing speeds I’ll encounter when working with some amateur women and seniors. I also went up to 140 mph because numerous long drivers I’ve trained can get their drivers up that high (RE/MAX World Long Drive champions like Joe Miller, Jamie Sadlowski and Ryan Winther can actually reach over 150 mph).

Aside from using the chart as a general reference point, here are a few other things that I think are worth pointing out:

First, these numbers are based off how the average Tour player strikes the ball. Although Tour players are overall good ball strikers with all their clubs, most of them are actually not as efficient (the Tour average is about 2.58 yards/mph of swing speed) as they can be when it comes to distance with their drivers because on average they hit drives that launch too low and with too much spin.

LGPA Tour players (2.65 yards/mph of swing speed) and Professional Long Drivers are actually more distance efficient with their drivers…but that’s a topic for another article. The good news for you is that greater carry and total-driving distances can be achieved at all the range of swing speeds shown above if you are a more efficient driver than the average male tour player at 2.58 yards/mph of swing speed.

With a 2-degree change in driver loft and some minor adjustments made to his swing path, angle of attack, etc, one of my amateur students went from being an already above-average efficient driver at 2.61 yards/mph to an extremely efficient one at 2.75 yards/mph. So with no change to his 102 mph swing speed, he increased his driving distance average from 266 to 280. Then after some swing speed training, he got up to 112 mph and can now hit drives around 307 yards with that same efficiency of 2.75 yards/mph. That’s 41 more yards!

Second, the club distances are based on the driver swing speeds that you would get from a system like FlightScope and Trackman. So if at all possible, get yourself checked on one of those. Otherwise, if you measure with something like a Speed Stik (which measure higher in my experience), you could get a false sense of how far you might expect to hit the ball.

As another example, Sports Sensors Swing Speed Radars (SSR) also read faster. It should be pointed out that SSRs are still a great personal training aid, and because of their accuracy and relative affordability and portability, they are actually the radar I recommend in my swing speed training programs.

However, the Doppler radar in an SSR measures the fastest moving part of the club head (typically the toe) versus a Trackman or FlightScope, which each have proprietary algorithms to calculate the speed at the center of the club face. For this reason, SSRs will read about 5 to 12 percent faster, depending on how you as an individual move the driver through impact. If you have an SSR, just hit 5 to 10 balls with it and a Trackman or FlightScope at the same time and you’ll find out your personal difference for sake of comparison.

Third, the above numbers can be useful for a good general reference, but like I mentioned in my article about understand distance variance , recognize that carry distances can vary a lot depending on conditions. Slopes, wind, temperature, altitude, etc., are all things that can affect how far the ball flies, so remember to factor that in.

Fourth, keep in mind potential loft differences between your clubs and the ones here. As a general rule of thumb, club manufacturers have made their club lofts (especially in the irons) continually stronger over the years as a way of marketing and selling consumers the new clubs.

Many top Tour players are being paid to play the latest clubs, which could mean they might also be playing irons with stronger lofts than the set you are playing. This isn’t always the case, however, but it’s another thing to be aware of.

Last, once you start approaching less than 80 mph with the driver, notice how the distances start bunching up between clubs.  At this point, you start getting to an area where you really don’t need a full set of 14 clubs. If this is you, perhaps you might also find that you hit a 3-wood or 5-wood further than a normal driver.

My wife is very strong and athletic, however, as a beginner who doesn’t play or practice very much, she hasn’t developed much swing speed. For that reason, we got her fitted for a 9-club set of Wishon 730CLs, a set that is designed specifically for men and women with less than 80 mph of club head speed.

The shafts are very light, the driver is 16 degrees and only 42 inches, the fairway woods are 20 and 26 degrees (versus the commonly used 15- and 19-degree fairway woods), and the remaining hybrids/irons are gapped out in 6-degree loft increments (compared to the normal 3- or 4-degree). Also, since many beginners, lesser skilled players and those with slower swing speeds can struggle with really high lofted wedges, the highest lofted wedge in the set is 54 degrees.

All of these things combine to provide a driver that can actually be hit in the air for distance, clubs that have substantial distance gapping, plus it’s just less clubs in general to lug around and choose from.

average tour carry distance

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average tour carry distance

Jaacob Bowden is Coach, Trainer, and Professional Golfer, keen on exploring golf and life’s broader lessons while offering coaching and swing speed training through JaacobBowden.com and SwingManGolf.com . With a history of driving remarkable golfing achievements, Jaacob intertwines his sport passion with holistic living. His writings reflect this blend, offering readers insights into improving both their game and their lives. Explore JaacobBowden.com and SwingManGolf.com to unlock a new level of golfing prowess and holistic enrichment.

107 Comments

Pingback: How Far Should You Hit Your Golf Clubs? | Swing Man Golf

average tour carry distance

Nov 26, 2021 at 7:16 pm

Hi there, I would like to subscribe for this web site to take hottest updates, thus where can i do it please assist.

average tour carry distance

Apr 26, 2021 at 8:47 am

I got a swing speed of 78mph with my i7 (31°) and my average carry is 155yards

Pingback: Golf Club Distances: How Far Should You Hit Each Golf Club? - Golfer Logic

average tour carry distance

Nov 15, 2018 at 12:59 am

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I hope no one else gets scammed by this fraud

average tour carry distance

Wileetoyote

Mar 10, 2018 at 12:25 pm

Your chart numbers are pretty accurate for me… I’m a 51 yr old with a single digit handicap and an avg (semi-aggressive) swing speed of 105mph. I bounce between your 100-110 number up and down the scale depending on a pure hit vs a toe hit and if I’m looking for a smooth hit at 80% or going after it at 90%. Anything overly aggressive (beyond 90%) would result in a miss hit half the time so I try to avoid that.

average tour carry distance

Feb 14, 2018 at 6:58 am

I just saw a video of you on you tube using both the swing speed radar and ,i think, a flight scope and the flight scope swing speeds were higher yet in the above blog you stated that the swing speed radar was most likely to read higher. Did that you tube video change your mind about that information as perhaps the swing speed radar readings are apt to be LOWER than one of those more expensive swing speed measuring devices

average tour carry distance

Jan 5, 2018 at 8:41 am

I just reread this article. The chart confirms something I noticed years ago, and that is my distances do not conform to the norm. On longer clubs, such as driver, fairways and hybrids I am less efficient. With an average driver swing speed of 95 my longer club averages are closer to a 90 SS or a little lower. My iron distances are closer to the 100 SS averages. I would think a lot of people are similar unless they are a plus handicap. Thanks for the information.

average tour carry distance

Apr 26, 2018 at 7:43 am

Chart is not perfect and everything is subject to centeredness of contact.

average tour carry distance

May 17, 2018 at 9:35 am

Then make a perfect chart.

average tour carry distance

Jan 2, 2018 at 6:48 pm

Interesting article but these numbers are way off. Understanding that the same swing speed can produce a variety of distances based on strike, AOA, etc these numbers still same significantly lower than the expected results. A 90 mph 7 iron is easily getting 170 carry on a quality strike. This chart has it at 138!!! That just does not add up. I think TM or GC2 have charts that provide more accurate information.

average tour carry distance

Jan 9, 2018 at 1:12 pm

Re-read the header of the table, “Approximate Carry Distances by Driver Swing Speed”. You will likely have about a 110 mph driver SS to have a 90 mph 7iron SS. The 110 mph column shows a 169 yard carry for a 7 iron.

average tour carry distance

Sep 23, 2018 at 3:44 am

Do many golfers mix and match brands of clubs? As a newbie, I’m hoping that the G30 driver will suit me as I bought the G30 irons and would like a matching set purely for aesthetics. I appreciate your input!

average tour carry distance

May 15, 2018 at 1:33 pm

90mph swing carrying 170yds, are you on crack????

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average tour carry distance

terry Langaard

Apr 19, 2016 at 11:52 pm

I had to change my swing because i have 2 blown discs in my back. so this year i changed my swing with a draw on it.maybe. maybe 1oomph, how far should my clubs go. driver 3wood 7 wood 4 hybrid 5 6 7 8 9 p 52 56 60. just something to go on. thanks terry l

average tour carry distance

Feb 12, 2016 at 9:56 pm

Hi Jaacob. I spent some time with your exercises. And it helped. I went from 97mph to 107. Then i read Kelvin miyahiras work and swing at 115-120. I found your exercies made me more explosive. I also deloft more now so ball speed is up. Swinging my 7 iron about 97MPH and hitting it 190-210 depending on shot shape. Golf is a different game knowing any hole under 340 is reachable with a good bounce or two.

average tour carry distance

May 15, 2020 at 9:45 am

7 iron going carrying 190-210 with a 97 mph swing isn’t possible unless you have quite a bit of down wind. My ss is 122 mph with driver and my ss with 7 iron is 103 mph and I carry it 190 on average. Something about your post isn’t right. Also there is no way you go from 97 to 120 mph no matter how much time you spend in the gym lifting weights, stretching, balance exercises and doing explosive movements. I am a certified trainer and I’ve had countless clients I have trained for golf.

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average tour carry distance

Apr 22, 2015 at 12:29 pm

Jaacob – Great article! Lots of information in both the article itself and the detailed responses to questions and comments. A lot to digest here. I’m a 75 year old 4-handicap with a measured driver clubhead speed of 92-94 mph – and your distance chart scales pretty well throughout the bag. Specific distances will vary with lofts, attack angles, conditions, type of shot (draw, cut, knock-down, etc.) and all the rest – but at first blush, when you go to pick a club for a particular shot, that’s a good place to start. (And most of the time, we would be pretty happy with a ±5-10 yard variation in distance to a tight pin!) Nice work.

average tour carry distance

Nov 21, 2014 at 7:25 am

just curiosity. As soon as the SLDR came out i bought it and i was driving it 280-85 total. 67 gram stiff shaft 9.5 Today im playing with the Cobra bio cell + and im driving it 290-300 when very solid. Stiff 9.5 65 gram

Is it suppose to change so much distance ? Sorry if any miss spelling haha im not american

average tour carry distance

Nov 20, 2014 at 2:29 pm

My swing speed is 95-98 mph and I drive the ball 225-250 yards. I hit my 7 iron 145 ish. My father has a swing speed of 70 mph but he hits a club further than me. Is this just all in my timing or is he an exeprion?

average tour carry distance

May 25, 2018 at 1:20 pm

Ha! My swing speed was just tested with my new ping G400’s and I hit 9 iron 150 and g25 driver avg 260-280 so what’s wrong with this picture?

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average tour carry distance

Aug 18, 2014 at 11:59 am

I’m 47, and can hit 7 iron about 155-160 consistently. My driver is a Ping 8.5 loft. My distance with it is not good at all, in fact it’s about on par with my 3wood distance. Do you think a shorter driver shaft and higher loft would help? The trajectory looks decent, not excessively low or high, but the distance isn’t there. Also, any ball recommendation? harder or softer for best distance?

average tour carry distance

Aug 20, 2014 at 6:20 pm

Yea . I suggest lofting up and trying a light weight shaft, with a high kick point for low spin, which wouldn’t the height because of the new loft you would be trying out. But it could mean you have a steep swing, rember to hit up on the ball And yes I’m not a pro but have lots of experience.

average tour carry distance

Nov 8, 2014 at 10:46 pm

I’d recommend you check out a lower spin driver. Get your back spin down to 2200 rpm with the driver and see how that works for you. Don’t concern yourself with loft or shaft length. The Ping I series should have less spin than the G series but don’t be afraid to try other manufacturers. Personally, I tried a lot of drivers and shafts and lofts until I fooled around with some low spin drivers in a launch monitor. My driving distance has gone way up. A 10.5° loft low spin driver goes lower and further for me compared to a 9° higher spin driver which goes higher and shorter.

average tour carry distance

Dec 23, 2015 at 8:17 pm

Get a driver with more loft. Woods uses a driver with 11.25 degrees of loft and he hits it a lot harder than you (or I) do. The newer balls (not wound) don’t spin as much and so need to be hit higher to start. They start losing trajectory right from the tee – an arcing trajectory, not like the older balls that would go in a straight line or even rise until the apex of the shot.

average tour carry distance

Sep 8, 2016 at 6:12 am

I also was using a driver with around 8 deg as i play links in Scotland and thought that was the ideal for low flying drives but after learning alot from trackman and local pro’s im now up at 11 deg and have learned to hit it low if required, i had huge spin numbers before this change, i suspect you have the same.

average tour carry distance

Aug 1, 2014 at 3:35 am

The driver/wood/hybrid numbers appear to be about right, but I must be insanely efficient with my irons. At 78 mph, my Titleist AP2 6 iron carries 150 according to GC2 hitting indoors off a mat(actually 155 on the course). The remaining irons are approx. 10 yards apart. All are stock loft/length/lie. I also strike the ball very well which may be the difference.

average tour carry distance

Jul 14, 2014 at 6:25 pm

Hi. There is a really useful piece of technology that exists that can help you understand how your stock carry numbers change with different playing conditions. It definitely compliments launch monitor technology and its outputs.

FlagHi app calculates the effects of the playing conditions on the carry number for each of your clubs.

You guys (and ladies) have known forever that the ball goes farther when it’s hotter. Or that when playing at higher elevation it goes farther. Or when it’s dry, less far. But did you know the effect? To the number?

With FlagHi you dial in all your carry numbers then before you play you just enter the weather forecast for your round and the elevation above sea-level of the course. Take the app with you in a recreational round and swipe to see all your clubs’ updated numbers. Or just write down the adjusted numbers if it’s a tournament and you can’t bring your phone. That’s what our touring pros do.

The FlagHi PRO app does the club-centric calculations but it also does something even cooler. If you enter the distances of a shot, it tells you the distance that the shot “actually plays”. Meaning if I’m from San Diego playing in Denver and I’ve got a 189 yard shot – FlagHi can tell me that the shot “actually plays” 170. Meaning I hit my 7 iron, which is my San Diego 170 club. Because of Denver’s thinner air the ball will sail an additional 19 yards and land – you guessed it – FlagHi.

Without FlagHi telling me this I would be totally guessing when I play in Denver. Hence why college teams and pros are dialing in their numbers with the app.

It’s on the apple app store and android is coming shortly. We normally price it for $4.99 but we like to play with the #’s and even right now FlagHi is only $0.99.

Our users tell us they love the app. There are no ads and it’s super easy to use. Used by touring pros, college teams, amateurs.

Hope this helps – thanks. And we’re golfers first (and last) and just a couple of guys who came up with this app idea so pardon the “commercial” tone here but honestly and humbly we think you all might find value in knowing how conditions affect how you flight the ball.

– The FlagHi Guys

average tour carry distance

May 19, 2014 at 1:31 pm

My driver SS dropped from 115 in my mid-to-late 30’s to 80 in at age 42. The weird thing is that I am in far better shape now than I was then. My core is stronger and I’m more flexible. I’ve gained a bit of it back, but my best swings are no more than 90-95 if I really go after it now. I’m still looking for the answer. I hit the ball straight and high and I have a good short game, so I still play well, but lack of distance sometimes gets me. I am a sweeper.

average tour carry distance

Jun 26, 2014 at 12:53 am

That is strange why you would have lost 35 mph of club head speed makes no sense to me. I’m 44 and in about the worse shape of my life but still swing just as fast and hit the ball just as far as my early 30s. Did you quit playing for several years then recently pick the game back up? If not I might consult with a doctor.

Jaacob Bowden

Jun 29, 2014 at 8:09 am

Being stronger or fit doesn’t mean you will be fast.

For example, when I competed in the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championships and was doing more explosive swing speed training exercises, I maxed my SSR out at 155 mph, which is probably around 139-143 mph on a Trackman.

However, when I started doing little to no swing speed training and more endurance running, which was required to finish 5th at the Speedgolf World Championships, my SSR speeds dropped down to 118 on the SSR (110’ish on a Trackman). Arguably I was more “fit”, but I wasn’t near as fast.

So it’s conceivable that something like this could have happened to you.

Have a look at the swing speed training programs at Swing Man Golf. With a bit of swing speed training, there’s no reason you couldn’t get your speed back up again.

average tour carry distance

Sep 28, 2015 at 1:37 am

Jaacob, I’m a 24 year old, athletically built male who just took up the game 6 months ago. I took a few lessons and have gotten my average scores down to the high 80’s from the 100’s since I began. Based on your chart, my club head speed is somewhere between 100 and 110. My distances are as follows: Driver – 270 3 wood – 255 5 wood – 240 4 hybrid – 210 6 iron -180 7 iron – 165 8 iron – 155 9 iron 145 PW – 135 My question is this, much like other posters, I my distances were much lower when I first started out, and as a result I purchased all regular shafted clubs. Should I now be considering stuff shafts for my driver and fairway woods? I’ve never been fitted and don’t know exactly what that entails…is there any cost/obligation to purchase that comes with getting fitted? I’m in the military and play on a pretty tight budget right now but want to be hitting the right clubs…and advice is much appreciated!

average tour carry distance

Nov 21, 2015 at 4:39 pm

I think you are kidding yourself on with those yardages unless you have the worst short game around you would be in the low seventies with those distances.

Dec 23, 2015 at 8:24 pm

Sam – He didn’t say he hit them all straight. He said he hit them that far. Hitting a crooked shot far acually would get him in more trouble, not less.

average tour carry distance

Jan 17, 2016 at 4:13 am

Also there is a difference between an average shot versus a perfect shot. Pointless to list perfect shot distances. That’s a recipe to missing the green every time. Unless as a mid handicapper he is a great ball striker.

average tour carry distance

Aug 12, 2014 at 12:20 am

How tense is your grip, do you release the clubhead? You must be doing something really inefficient

Aug 20, 2014 at 6:23 pm

Hey Ronney you could just be loading the club to fast causing over hip rotation just like in the commercial. Just take up smooth then create power with your legs coming done and crush it.

average tour carry distance

Apr 24, 2014 at 4:54 pm

thanks. well written article, very helpful.

my swing speed is just about a 100 and the numbers are perfectly accurate on your chart for me. i play on a course with practically no roll and a 250 drive for me is good.

the one thing that puzzles me is that i hit my wedges really far. my 60 degree is my 100 yard club, my PW is about 135. these aren’t exaggerated. these are carries on the course. sometimes i think i just have so much more confidence with the wedges that it frees me up. i hit them really high too, which is weird given the distances.

any thoughts as why that would be the case? who carries his driver 240 but hits hits his gap wedge 125?

Jun 29, 2014 at 8:14 am

It’s difficult to tell without seeing you in person, but a scenario like this where short irons go longer…and longer irons, hybrids, and drivers go shorter…is possible if your clubs are de-lofted quite a bit or you perhaps have an excessively downward angle of attack.

With the driver in particular, catching it on the upswing could in all likelihood net you some more carry and total distance more along the lines of what you might expect.

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average tour carry distance

Jan 10, 2014 at 3:01 pm

would love to watch someone swing a PW 140 mph…. and crack a rib or 4 in the process 😉

average tour carry distance

Jul 9, 2014 at 9:30 pm

The 140 swing speed number is driver only. He isn’t swing his PW 140.

You know that right?

average tour carry distance

Jan 2, 2014 at 4:00 pm

question…if I use teh 80 mph swing speed as my driver guide..the numbers appear to be very close…but if I were to adjust my 10.5 driver to 10.0 or 11.0 or go to a 12.0 driver, same shaft, would I get less or more yardage? I have been playing with adjustments on my 10.5 and can’t quite figure which is the most beneficial, initial trajectory or roll, etc.

average tour carry distance

Jan 22, 2014 at 1:17 pm

If your swing speed is 80 MPH, you would most likely get more yardage with more loft.

Jun 29, 2014 at 8:20 am

Hi jc, Joel is right. You would more likely get more distance with more loft.

At 80 mph, for maximum carry I would target you for about an 18 degree launch angle and 2600’ish on your spin.

For maximum total distance, I would say around 15 and 2000 would be the goal.

What I would recommend would depend on the type of course(s) you play. For tighter courses, soft fairways, when you have to carry trouble, or where there are doglegs you don’t want to run through…I would say to favor the carry side of things. For more open courses with harder fairways and the like, going for total distance might be better.

average tour carry distance

Dec 21, 2013 at 12:14 am

How does the Foresight GC2 compare against Trackman and the SSR?

Jun 29, 2014 at 7:54 am

I forget off the top of my head about the GC2, however, in my experience an SSR generally reads slightly faster than a Trackman. Both have Dopplar radar but the Trackman has an additional algorithm built in to it to calculate speed at the center of the face whereas an SSR will pick up the fastest moving part of the club head (usually the toe).

It varies from person to person depending on how that person moves the club through impact. Last I checked, I was around 8% faster on an SSR. Most people I’ve measured are between 5-10% faster. Once you know your personal difference (from hitting with an SSR and a Trackman at the same time), you can get a really accurate idea of your Trackman speeds using an SSR.

Making sure you have the SSR placed correctly also can make a difference.

average tour carry distance

Dec 18, 2013 at 11:06 pm

Great article Jaacob and thanks for sharing the stats against swing speed and carry distance. I have a swing speed close to 110mph and I can see some very close comparisons to my measured yardage with my MP59’s (which don’t have too strong a loft)and your figures. I believe the C-taper shafts give me a few extra yards due to lowering the ball spin. You mentioned today’s stronger lofts, but do you see much variance in the type of shafts used? I have seen some inconsistency in my carry yardage across my short irons. Sometimes when using short iron, I have gone up a club thinking I’ll swing it “softer” and it will go a bit shorter, but have over hit my target. I must be swinging at the same speed and still getting the same yardage. This also answers part of the question why I hit an occasional drive or 3 wood 20 or 30 yards longer than my standard yardage. I know I get a faster swing speed on my driver and 3 wood, but I always saw it as clean tempo or a centered impact, I wasn’t thinking about swing speed.

average tour carry distance

Dec 17, 2013 at 12:46 am

Does the extra 20 yards carry due to the course conditions? More roll than a public course.

Jun 29, 2014 at 7:49 am

Driving distances vary quite a bit depending on the course conditions.

For example, the Tour average for the last 10 years generally has ran between 285-290. However, at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, the average driving distance was 268 yards. At the Wachovia Championship, it was 297 yards.

average tour carry distance

Dec 16, 2013 at 7:53 pm

I find my distances are pretty close to the 80mph swing. when i hit it good its usually 280 right down the middle

Dec 16, 2013 at 10:04 pm

So you normally hit driver 206 and when you hit it solidly you hit it 280? Or your irons are shorter but driver longer distance?

Feb 13, 2018 at 7:08 am

280 right down middle sounds like 100 mph not 80

average tour carry distance

Dec 14, 2013 at 4:21 pm

Great article! Interesting that my short irons play to the pga distances but I start to fall off around the 6i, probably has to do with contact.

Jun 29, 2014 at 7:45 am

It’s difficult to tell without seeing you in-person, but it’s possible you could have an excessive amount of shaft lean with your clubs. That scenario could make shorter irons go farther and longer irons, hybrids, and woods, fly less than expected.

average tour carry distance

Jul 2, 2014 at 5:19 am

Great article! So more shaft lean in woods creates less distance? Why is that?

I have been tinkering with my swing and have created quite a bit more shaft lean then I had previously. I have noticed that all my irons have increased in distance by about ten to fifteen yards. but my driver & 3 wood have kind of stayed the same, or in a lot of cases I’ve actually lost distance.

So should I go back to less shaft lean for driver & 3 wood? But keep it for the irons?

I have noticed more consistency with my irons regarding target lines, but I am struggling more with the woods for that consistency now.

Appreciate your feedback, and thanks again for the article, very informative.

average tour carry distance

Apr 25, 2013 at 6:46 pm

I need to figure out why my irons are consistently matched to the 105mph swing speed i.e. 4i = 190y & 9i = 140y, but my driver carries 220ish. With especially good contact, I have carried to 240, but it’s rare. I think I just have a lot more misses with my driver, maybe ???

PS Great article.

Apr 26, 2013 at 4:17 am

Thanks, Geoff.

Hmmm, what you mentioned about more misses could certainly be part of the shorter driver carry distances. Get some impact tape and/or foot powder for your driver face so you can make sure you’re hitting it consistently on a good spot on the face.

Also, by chance do you know your average launch angle and spin rate with your driver?

It’s possible you could be launching it too low and/or with too much spin to carry it that far.

At 105 mph, my target for you would be about 13.4 degree launch and 2445 rpm spin.

average tour carry distance

Mar 15, 2013 at 2:59 pm

Hey Jaacob,

Would you mind sharing your math? I want to customize based on my avg iron distances.

Mar 17, 2013 at 8:46 am

Sure thing, Paddy.

The chart is based off the PGA Tour average carry distances that were reported by Trackman (see the first chart in the top of the article), the average total driving distance from the PGATour.com website (about 289 yards), and the average PGA Tour swing speed (about 112 mph).

Using all that data, I calculated the percent difference from the Tour average swing speed (about 112 mph) to whatever swing speed I wanted. For example, a 90 mph driver swing speed is 80.4% of a 112 mph (90 / 112 = 0.804) driver swing speed.

Once I knew the percent difference, I went down for each club from the Tour distances and multiplied each one by 0.804 to get the 90 mph distances.

For example, 80.4% of a 289-yard total drive at 112 mph is 232 yards (0.804 * 289 yards = 232 yards), 80.4% of a 269-yard carry at 112 mph is 216 yards (0.804 * 269 yards = 216 yards), etc.

Then it was simply a matter of repeating all that for the different swing speeds.

I made the original chart in Excel and just copied and pasted the formulas to each cell.

Make sense?

Mar 18, 2013 at 12:50 pm

Yep, using your logic, I could do the same math off of the average distance of my 7 iron vs. the PGA pro 7 iron distance. I’ll try this, thanks!

average tour carry distance

Mar 7, 2013 at 11:40 pm

For swing speed training, what do you suggest/recommend?

Mar 8, 2013 at 3:54 am

Hi Jason, have a look at my Swing Man Golf website. If you have any further questions after that, just send me an email through the contact form and I’ll be glad to help however I can.

average tour carry distance

Feb 14, 2013 at 12:54 pm

Ryan Wither has been clocked at 167. which is the fastest ever. I know cuz I gave him lessons and watch alot of his swings.

Feb 17, 2013 at 5:59 am

Hi Kyle, do you know what type of radar was being used?

Speeds vary depending on the radar.

For example, although they are accurate, Sports Sensors swing speed radars usually read 5-12% faster (depends on the person and how they move the club through impact) than a Trackman because they measure the fastest moving part of the club head…which is normally the toe. Conversely, a Trackman or Flightscope X2 have algorithms to calculate the speed at the center of the club face…and thus read slower than an SSR.

If I remember correctly, the last time I heard from Ryan, the fastest he has posted on a Trackman was at the PGA Show…156 mph. The fastest that was recorded for him on Trackman at the 2012 World Championships was 149.4 mph.

average tour carry distance

Feb 5, 2013 at 2:13 pm

this is a weird article becasue i recently got fitted for irons and they said i swing 72 mph with my irons but i hit my 7 iron like 130 average

Feb 5, 2013 at 2:37 pm

Cody, the speeds above are based on driver swing speeds…not iron swing speeds. Do you know what your driver swing speed is?

Feb 8, 2013 at 2:08 pm

not really sure , i hit a taylormade r7 superquad with a stiff shaft, i dont swing fast at all i think i get like 230 consitent off my drives

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average tour carry distance

Jan 22, 2013 at 5:51 pm

Great article and very imformative! I’ve had those PGA and LPGA charts for a while and most recreational golfers (single handicap and above) should be looking at LPGA numbers for each given iron rather than PGA, even if they swing faster than the LPGA averages beacuse most amatures have low smash factors so even if they are able to swing close in swing speed to the PGA averages, the lower smash will result in lower ball speeds and carry distances of the LPGA.

Basically my numbers are exactly one club more than the PGA pros, given my swing speed and smash factors are not as optimal as theirs.

I think your chart (estimated potential swing speed and carry distance projected from the PGA average) is also a good indication of what our potentials are. That is, if you swing 100mph driver with 255 carry but the rest of your clubs fall more into the range projected down from the 90mph driver swing speed then you know you work on those clubs and tighten the yardage gaps….

average tour carry distance

Jan 19, 2013 at 1:56 pm

Jaacob, thanks for posting this; I’ve been looking for a comparison chart with different speeds like the one you posted. My distances appear to match up quite closely with the 100 mph, just slightly less, with my 7 iron going 150, 8 140, 9 130, etc, but I think my irons are a bit strong. However, I hit my 4 iron 180 (as I should if the chart is right), but sometimes use it to hit 190-200 (probably because I never actually swing 100% when hitting my irons because I’m afraid of blading etc) since I do not have a 3 iron. My main concern is that for some reason I only hit my driver about 200. I’m not sure why, I must never be hitting the center of my driver, because I should be 240 carry. Every shot feels good, and when I hit a really good one, it still maybe will reach 220. I’m not sure what to do, any tips? Thanks, -Nick

Jan 19, 2013 at 4:14 pm

Sure thing, Nick.

To answer your question, can you get on a Trackman or Flightscope X2 and hit a few drives?

I’m curious to verify your swing speed…and also know your launch angle, spin rate, and smash factor.

average tour carry distance

Tom Allinder

Jan 19, 2013 at 11:11 am

Jaacob, I enjoyed your article and received some significant insight regarding measurement of swing speed given the number of sensors on the market.

One area I am particularly concerned with is those of us over 50 years of age. Many of my golfing buddies feel that loss of distance is a natural result of aging. I disagree to an extent with that attitude. We seniors can hit the ball plenty long if we work out, stretch, do some yoga etc. I think a good diet is part of it too.

While it is inevitable that we lose speed with aging, we don’t have to give in completely. A little work, proper fitting and improved technique can get a lot of yards back and get longer than we ever were in our youth!

Another thing we seniors benefit from in competition is we are now playing competitive rounds on courses at 6400-6600 yards. Wow, golf is fun again because I don’t need to hit driver on many of the par 4s and still have only a wedge left to the pin! The par 5’s are reachable again too!

Again, great article and I will be a regular reader from now on…

average tour carry distance

Jan 17, 2013 at 1:02 pm

Awesome Data stuff, Mr Bowden!

Would it be possible to expand this article to full size analysis of everything mentioned so far, in much much more detail with proper tables and graphs and charts, just as everybody wants, with all the big tours’ averages and modern club loft standards, etc? Then it would be the perfect bible.

Awesome, nonetheless, and helps me illustrate my points to students and friends alike who just cannot believe the scientific numbers of averages out there, who all still believe that more than most Tour guys bomb it past 300 with their drivers and hit their 6 irons to 240 yards LOL

Jan 17, 2013 at 4:15 pm

That’s a good idea. Let me check and see what I can do.

Stay tuned!

Jan 19, 2013 at 1:43 pm

Just got something published! Here’s the article with a summary chart -> http://www.golfwrx.com/64715/carry-distance-vs-swing-speed-chart/

average tour carry distance

Chris Wehring

Jan 16, 2013 at 9:22 pm

This article is pretty interesting! I found some things that don’t match up with my swing. It could just be my weird swing. As of last year, my swing speed was around 95 but I carry my 8 iron almost 150 on a good strike. Maybe my course’s markers are just off. I don’t know. Haha maybe my swing is similar to the LPGA swings in being more efficient with my swing speed. I really liked the article though.

average tour carry distance

Jan 16, 2013 at 11:48 am

Great article, thanks! Would also be great to know LPGA and Champions averages, just for comparison…

Jan 16, 2013 at 2:41 pm

Glad you enjoyed it, Frank.

Here are the LPGA Trackman numbers (in yards). Unfortunately, I don’t have the club lofts…which would be useful. Although, like I mentioned in my comment reply to Andy and David, a rough estimate of those could be calculated similar to how I did it above.

Driver (total) – 246 Driver (carry) – 220 3W – 195 5W – 185 7W – 174 4-Iron – 170 5-Iron – 161 6-Iron – 152 7-Iron – 141 8-Iron – 130 9-Iron – 119 PW – 107

Let me check on the Champions Tour numbers…

Jan 16, 2013 at 4:16 pm

I didn’t find anything for the Champions Tour, but let’s see what we can come up with.

The mean driving distance on the Champions Tour for the 2012 season was 273.4 yards. Assuming that Champions Tour players have the same driving efficiency as regular PGA Tour players at 2.58 yards per mph of swing speed, that would mean the average swing speed for a Champions Tour player is about 106 mph.

Using the same algebra that I did in the article, here would be the carry estimates in yards:

Driver (Total) – 274 Driver (Carry) – 255 3-Wood – 230 5-Wood – 218 Hybrid – 213 3-Iron – 201 4-Iron – 192 5-Iron – 184 6-Iron – 173 7-Iron – 163 8-Iron – 151 9-Iron – 140 PW – 129

Mar 12, 2013 at 6:35 pm

My numbers are a BIT different. Any chance you’re willing to share your math so I can apply this to my average distances for certain clubs? Thanks!

average tour carry distance

Mar 4, 2013 at 8:01 am

Great article…good to see some hard #s to compare. I personally am coming off double hip replacement surgeries in 2012 and watched a lot of LPGA golf last year during recovery/rehab…I personally found that I now relate more to the yardages the top women players have than the elite men college or pro level. Also, the women have impeccable tempo and always seem to swing “within” themselves.

average tour carry distance

Jan 16, 2013 at 11:35 am

Important for folks to also realize the PGA Tour and Nationwide follow the sun AKA usually playing in optimal conditions with super tight fairways affording 20 plus yards of roll. Buddy of mine who is a caddy who knows web.com guys said their distances went up immediately upon playing more manicure courses in 70-80 degree weather. Yeah they still hit it great/far/better than us!

average tour carry distance

Martin Signer

Jan 16, 2013 at 6:47 am

interesting good article.

Have a nice day,

average tour carry distance

Jan 15, 2013 at 10:27 pm

Instead of listing the club name how about listing the name and the loft? My 9i is 41*. Does that map to the 9i on the chart or one of the other clubs? Thanks. -Andy

average tour carry distance

David McElroy

Jan 16, 2013 at 9:13 am

I agree, it would be nice to see loft along with those figures.

Jan 16, 2013 at 2:24 pm

You guys are both right. This data is much more useful with the lofts.

I was actually curious about this as well so I looked up what 30 PGA Tour players “say” they are playing on their websites, from “What’s in the Bag” videos and articles, etc…and then looked up the specs from the company’s websites for each of those club models.

It’s only a small data sample and perhaps there is a difference from each player’s actual club specs versus what is listed in the places I looked, but here are the averages I came up with:

Driver – 9.0 3-Wood – 14.4 5-Wood/Hybrid/Long Iron – 19.2 4-Iron – 23.9 5-Iron – 27.0 6-Iron – 30.5 7-Iron – 34.3 8-Iron – 38.3 9-Iron – 42.4 PW – 47.1 GW/SW – 53.9 LW – 59.7

Jan 16, 2013 at 2:31 pm

Oh, regarding the chart with the PGA Tour Trackman averages…it says 15-18* for hybrid.

average tour carry distance

Dec 21, 2013 at 4:49 pm

its funny how strong lofts are on modern irons. I have a set of circa 1980 titleist tour models, and the stamped loft on the pw is 49 degrees and 9 iron at 45 degrees. I bent them strong to the modern lofts much similar to the loft chart you posted. the only problem? the stronger they are bent, the more offset they are and the higher they seem to fly and the more they hook.

Jan 2, 2014 at 4:01 pm

in the dave pelz short game bible, what was a pitching wedge of 50 is now a gap wedge on almost all sets..

average tour carry distance

Troy Vayanos

Jan 15, 2013 at 5:52 pm

They are interesting numbers Jacob. I’ve no doubt the touring professionals have these tested to the very inch. At their level getting the right distances are absolutely vital and often the difference between winning and losing.

I only wish we had this sort of technology available in Australia. Hitting at the golf driving range is fine but it doesn’t really give you exact carry distances as the target is too far away and no way of seeing where the golf ball actually lands.

Would you know of how the average golfer can work out these numbers?

Jan 16, 2013 at 2:06 pm

Troy, I’m not sure what part of Australia you live…but the locator tool on the Trackman website shows there are some Trackmans in basically all the major cities like Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Gold Coast, and Brisbane.

As for the SSRs, unfortunately Sports Sensors doesn’t presently have a frequency license for the radar in Australia and thus they won’t ship there. However, sometimes you can find someone on eBay that is willing to sell and ship to Oz.

You might also check your local golf shop or golf course. Often times, they will have a launch monitor of some sorts. If you can find out the name of the launch monitor brand, there are usually articles out and around on Google comparing and contrasting different brands and how they measure swing speed versus.

As for working out the numbers without a radar or someone to help you see where the ball lands…hmmm, there’s a number of ways to do it. Here’s a couple.

If you have a range finder, laser the distance to a flag within short iron distance from the fairway. Choose a club that you think will get you close to the flag with a full swing, hit a shot (or a few if you aren’t holding anyone up), and then add or subtract how many paces the pitch marks are relative to the flag from the distance you lasered in the fairway.

Without a range finder…find an open hole, drop a few balls, and step them off by foot to get a rough average distance. From there you can estimate the other clubs.

average tour carry distance

Jan 27, 2013 at 11:15 pm

Just a quick question, probably not an easy or quick answer… If my yardages are way off of that, say out to 165 for a pitching wedge… Say out to 190 some days with a 7… Only swing speed I know is my driver @ 114-115 consistently… Am I swinging too hard or possibly delofting my irons at impact?

Jan 29, 2013 at 7:48 am

Hmmm, well distances can vary based on the conditions. That’s one possibility. Check out my other article for more on that aspect -> http://www.golfwrx.com/54875/understanding-distance-variance/

Delofting, like you mentioned, could be another possibility. More specifically, you may be decreasing your spin loft…which is the difference between your angle of attack and the dynamic loft of the club.

So say your friend hits down 2 degrees on the ball and the dynamic loft is 30 degrees…then you take the club, swing at the same speed, and hit down 2 degrees but have a dynamic loft that is 26 degrees from having your hands further forward at impact…your ball would probably have less spin, a greater smash factor, and go farther. Depending on the person and other specifics of their game, this scenario could be good or bad.

As for swinging too hard, that would depend on if you feel like you can control your shots. If you feel under control hitting those distances, I’d say it’s no problem.

Jul 9, 2014 at 9:37 pm

Love this kind of information. Great article.

how can i get faster swing speed. I am in the 100 category give.

Would you advise switching to REGULAR flex?

average tour carry distance

Jan 15, 2013 at 3:27 pm

Good article. Curiously, where my SS of 98-100 (as measured at GolfTown-who knows if accurate, though their flight numbers are close to what I see on course-don’t trust their roll #s as they have my wedges rolling 10+ lol) seems to fit your long club carry numbers pretty well, it’s not close with my scoring clubs. My irons from 8i down to my 64° get very little roll. My 58° goes at least 100, my PW 140, and 8i 160. even my 8i rarely rolls more than 10 ft from it’s landing spot. And I only hit my mid-irons/wedges with an abbreviated swing, I’m not trying to kill them. As you can see, if a green involves a hazard carry of >170, I lay up.

My distances are (including roll I play on average, amount of roll given)~: D-270(30), 3w-240(25), 5w-215(20), 4i-200(20), 5i-190(15), 6i-180(10), 7i-170(10), 8i-160(<5), 9i-150(<5), PW-140, 52°-120, 58°-100, 64°-80

average tour carry distance

Jan 20, 2013 at 11:37 pm

I’m a big hitter with a fast swing speed and I also carry a 64* wedge. I used to hit about 85-90 yards max, which gave me something to brag about, but I believe hitting a 64* wedge 80 yards is not ideal. I changed my approach of wedges about two years ago and I lost 25 yards off my 64* wedge, but my accuracy and pinpoint placement has improved. Also I feel that instead of just launching the ball high and having it land with 4′ of check! I can play my 64* with a much better angle of approach. Glad to hear you’re swingin’ a 64* though, not too many people carrying them around.

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average tour carry distance

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Vincenzi’s 2024 rbc heritage betting preview: patrick cantlay ready to get back inside winner’s circle.

average tour carry distance

Just a two-hour drive from Augusta National, the PGA TOUR heads to Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head Island, S.C. Hilton Head Island is a golfer’s paradise and Harbour Town is one of the most beautiful and scenic courses on the PGA TOUR.

Harbour Town Golf Links is a par-71 that measures 7,121 yards and features Bermuda grass greens. A Pete Dye design, the course is heavily tree lined and features small greens and many dog legs, protecting it from “bomb-and-gauge” type golfers.

The field is loaded this week with 69 golfers with no cut. Last year was quite possibly the best field in RBC Heritage history and the event this week is yet another designated event, meaning there is a $20 million prize pool.

Most of the big names on the PGA Tour will be in attendance this week with the exceptions of Hideki Matsuyama and Viktor Hovland. Additionally, Webb Simpson, Shane Lowry, Gary Woodland and Kevin Kisner have been granted sponsors exemptions. 

Past Winners at Harbour Town

  • 2023: Matt Fitzpatrick (-17)
  • 2022: Jordan Spieth (-13)
  • 2021: Stewart Cink (-19)
  • 2020: Webb Simpson (-22)
  • 2019: CT Pan (-12)
  • 2018: Sotoshi Kodaira (-12)
  • 2017: Wesley Bryan (-13)
  • 2016: Branden Grace (-9)
  • 2015: Jim Furyk (-18)

In this article and going forward, I’ll be using the Rabbit Hole by Betsperts Golf data engine to develop my custom model. If you want to build your own model or check out all of the detailed stats, you can sign up using promo code: MATTVIN for 25% off any subscription package (yearly is best value).

Key Stats For Harbour Town

Let’s take a look at key metrics for Harbour Town Golf Links to determine which golfers boast top marks in each category over their past 24 rounds.

Strokes Gained: Approach

Strokes Gained: Approach is exceedingly important this week. The greens at Harbour Town are about half the size of PGA TOUR average and feature the second-smallest greens on the tour. Typical of a Pete Dye design, golfers will pay the price for missed greens.

Total SG: Approach Over Past 24 Rounds

  • Scottie Scheffler  (+1.27)
  • Tom Hoge  (+1.27)
  • Corey Conners  (+1.16)
  • Austin Eckroat  (+0.95)
  • Cameron Young  (+0.93)

Good Drive %

The fairways at Harbour Town are tree lined and feature many dog legs. Bombers tend to struggle at the course because it forces layups and doesn’t allow long drivers to overpower it. Accuracy is far more important than power.

Good Drive % Over Past 24 Rounds

  • Brice Garnett  (88.8%)
  • Shane Lowry  (+87.2%)
  • Akshay Bhatia  (+86.0%)
  • Si Woo Kim  (+85.8%)
  • Sepp Straka  (+85.1%)

Strokes Gained: Total at Pete Dye Designs

Pete Dye specialists tend to play very well at Harbour Town. Si Woo Kim, Matt Kuchar, Jim Furyk and Webb Simpson are all Pete Dye specialists who have had great success here. It is likely we see some more specialists near the top of the leaderboard this week.

SG: TOT Pete Dye per round over past 36 rounds:

  • Xander Schauffele  (+2.27)
  • Scottie Scheffler  (+2.24)
  • Ludvig Aberg  (+2.11)
  • Brian Harman  (+1.89)
  • Sungjae Im  (+1.58)

4. Strokes Gained: Short Game (Bermuda)

Strokes Gained: Short Game factors in both around the green and putting. With many green-side bunkers and tricky green complexes, both statistics will be important. Past winners — such as Jim Furyk, Wes Bryan and Webb Simpson — highlight how crucial the short game skill set is around Harbour Town.

SG: SG Over Past 24 Rounds

  • Jordan Spieth  (+1.11)
  • Taylor Moore  (+1.02)
  • Wyndham Clark  (+0.98)
  • Mackenzie Hughes  (+0.86)
  • Andrew Putnam  (+0.83)

5. Greens in Regulation %

The recipe for success at Harbour Town Golf Links is hitting fairways and greens. Missing either will prove to be consequential — golfers must be in total control of the ball to win.

Greens in Regulation % over past 24 rounds:

  • Brice Garnett  (+75.0%)
  • Scottie Scheffler  (+69.9%)
  • Corey Conners  (+69.0%)
  • Shane Lowry  (+68.3%)
  • Patrick Rodgers  (+67.6%)

6. Course History

Harbour Town is a course where players who have strong past results at the course always tend to pop up. 

Course History over past 24 rounds:

  • Patrick Cantlay  (+2.34)
  • Cam Davis  (+2.05)
  • J.T. Poston  (+1.69)
  • Justin Rose  (+1.68)
  • Tommy Fleetwood  (+1.59)

The RBC Heritage Model Rankings

Below, I’ve compiled overall model rankings using a combination of the five key statistical categories previously discussed — SG: Approach (24%), Good Drives (20%), SG: SG (14%), SG: Pete Dye (14%), GIR (14%), and Course History (14%)

  • Shane Lowry
  • Russell Henley
  • Scottie Scheffler
  • Xander Schauffele
  • Corey Conners 
  • Wyndham Clark
  • Christiaan Bezuidenhout
  • Matt Fitzpatrick
  • Cameron Young
  • Ludvig Aberg  

2024 RBC Heritage Picks

Patrick Cantlay +2000 (FanDuel)

With the exception of Scottie Scheffler, the PGA Tour has yet to have any of their star players show peak form during the 2024 season. Last week, Patrick Cantlay, who I believe is a top-5 players on the PGA Tour, took one step closer to regaining the form that’s helped him win eight events on Tour since 2017.

Cantlay limped into the Masters in poor form, but figured it out at Augusta National, finishing in a tie for 20th and ranking 17th for the week in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking. The former FedEx Cup champion will now head to one of his favorite golf courses in Harbour Town, where he’s had immaculate results over the years. In his six trips to the course, he’s only finished worse than 7th one time. The other finishes include three third places (2017, 2019, 2023) and one runner-up finish (2022). In his past 36 rounds at Harbour Town, Cantlay ranks 1st in Strokes Gained: Total per round at the course by a wide margin (+2.36).

Cantlay is winless since the 2022 BMW Championship, which is far too long for a player of his caliber. With signs pointing to the 32-year-old returning to form, a “signature event” at Harbour Town is just what he needs to get back on the winning track.

Tommy Fleetwood +3000 ( FanDuel )

I truly believe Tommy Fleetwood will figure out a way to win on American soil in 2024. It’s certainly been a bugaboo for him throughout his career, but he is simply too talented to go another season without winning a PGA Tour event.

At last week’s Masters Tournament, Fleetwood made a Sunday charge and ended up finishing T3 in the event, which was his best ever finish at The Masters. For the week, the Englishman ranked 8th in the field in Strokes Gained: Approach, 10th in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking and 16th in Strokes Gained: Putting.

Harbour Town is a perfect layout for Fleetwood, and he’s had relative success at this Pete Dye design in the past.  In his four trips to the course, he’s finished inside of the top 25 three times, with his best finish, T10, coming in 2022. The course is pretty short and can’t be overpowered, which gives an advantage to more accurate players such as Fleetwood. Tommy ranks 8th in the field in Good Drive % and should be able to plot his way along this golf course.

The win is coming for Tommy lad. I believe there’s a chance this treasure of a golf course may be the perfect one for him to finally break through on Tour.

Cameron Young +3300 ( FanDuel )

Cameron Young had a solid Masters Tournament last week, which is exactly what I’m looking for in players who I anticipate playing well this week at the RBC Heritage. He finished in a tie for 9th, but never felt the pressure of contending in the event. For the week, Young ranked 6th in Strokes Gained: Off the Tee and 6th in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking.

Despite being one of the longest players off the tee on the PGA Tour, Young has actually played some really good golf on shorter tracks. He finished T3 at Harbour Town in 2023 and ranks 20th in the field in Good Drive% and 16th in Greens in Regulation in his past 24 rounds. He also has strong finishes at other shorter courses that can take driver out of a players hand such as Copperhead and PGA National.

Young is simply one of the best players on the PGA Tour in 2024, and I strongly believe has what it takes to win a PGA Tour event in the very near future.

Corey Conners +5500 ( FanDuel )

Corey Conners has had a disappointing year thus far on the PGA Tour, but absolutely loves Harbour Town.

At last week’s Masters Tournament, the Canadian finished T30 but ranked 20th in the field in Strokes Gained: Approach. In his past 24 rounds, Conners ranks 3rd in the field in Strokes Gained: Approach, 3rd in Greens in Regulation % and 24th in Good Drive %.

In Conners’ last four trips to Harbour Town, his worst finish was T31, last season. He finished T4 in 2021, T12 in 2022 and ranks 8th in Strokes Gained: Total at the course over his past 36 rounds.

Conners hasn’t been contending, but his recent finishes have been encouraging as he has finished in the top-25 in each of his past three starts prior to The Masters, including an impressive T13 at The PLAYERS. His recent improvement in ball striking as well as his suitability for Harbour Town makes Conners a high upside bet this week.

Shane Lowry (+7500) ( FanDuel )

When these odds were posted after Lowry was announced in the field, I have to admit I was pretty stunned. Despite not offering much win equity on the PGA Tour over the last handful of years, Shane Lowry is still a top caliber player who has the ability to rise to the top of a signature event.

Lowry struggled to score at The Masters last week, but he actually hit the ball really well. The Irishman ranked 1st for Strokes Gained: Approach on the week and 7th in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking. As usual, it was the putter that let him down, as he ranked 60th in the field in Strokes Gained: Putting.

Harbour Town is most definitely one of Lowry’s favorite courses on the PGA Tour. In his six starts there, he’s finished in the top 10 three times, including third twice. Lowry is sensational at Pete Dye designs and ranks 7th in Strokes Gained: Total in his past 36 rounds on Dye tracks. 

Lowry is perfect for Harbour Town. In his past 24 rounds, he ranks 5th in Strokes Gained: Approach, 2nd in Good Drive% and 5th in Green in Regulation %. If he figures it out on the greens, Shane could have his first win in America since 2015.

Lucas Glover +12000 ( FanDuel )

This is one of my weekly “bet the number” plays as I strongly believe the odds are just too long for a player of Glover’s caliber. The odds have been too long on Glover for a few weeks now, but this is the first event that I can get behind the veteran being able to actually contend at. 

Glover is quietly playing good golf and returning to the form he had after the understandable regression after his two massive victories at the end of 2023. He finished T20 at The Masters, which was his best ever finish at Augusta National. For the week, Lucas ranked 18th for Strokes Gained: Approach and 20th in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking.

Over his past 24 rounds, Glover ranks 9th in Strokes Gained: Approach and 13th in Good Drive %. Harbour Town is a short course that the 44-year-old will be able to keep up with the top players on Tour off the tee. He’s played the course more than 20 times, with mixed results. His best finishes at Harbour Town include a T7 in 2008, but recently has a finish of T21 in 2020.

Glover has proven he can contend with the stars of the Tour on any given week, and this number is flat out disrespectful.

Vincenzi: The 6 biggest takeaways from the 2024 Masters

average tour carry distance

The 2024 Masters offered up plenty of excitement throughout the week with Scottie Scheffler delivering when it mattered to live up to his pre-tournament favorite tag. With the year’s opening major now in the books, here are my six biggest takeaways from the 2024 Masters.

Scheffler In a League of His Own

In the most impressive way possible, Scottie Scheffler won the Masters without having his absolute best stuff. For the week, Scottie ranked 19th in Strokes Gained: Approach, which is a category the number player in the world typically dusts the rest of the field in. After a strong approach day on Thursday, the 27-year-old lost strokes to the field on approach on Friday and Saturday, before gaining on Sunday. The iron performance was more than solid, but it was an all-around game that helped Scheffler get it done around Augusta National.

For a year or more, the narrative around Scheffler has been, “With his ball striking, if he can just putt to field average, he’ll be unbeatable.” At Augusta, his ball striking came back down to earth, but his touch around the greens and ability to manage the golf course demonstrated why he is the best player on the planet right now. For the week, Scheffler ranked 1st in the field in Strokes Gained: Around the Green and 24th in Strokes Gained: Putting.

For the time being, there is a major gap between Scottie Scheffler and the second-best player in the world, whoever that may be.

The Future is Now

Ludvig Aberg went into his first back-nine at the Masters with a legitimate shot to win the tournament. When he teed it up on the treacherous 11th hole, he was one behind Scottie Scheffler, who had just stuck one to a few feet on the 9th. By the time he approached his tee shot, which was perfectly striped down the left side of the fairway, he was two behind. Unfortunately, the 24-year-old got too aggressive with his approach at the 11th and found the water, making double bogey. Ludvig rebounded nicely and finished the event in solo second place.

With the Masters now in the rearview, it’s never been more evident that Ludvig Aberg is no longer an “up-and-comer” — he has arrived. The Swede has been an integral part of a winning European Ryder Cup team and has now contended at Augusta National. With a calm demeanor, a picture-perfect swing, and a build and stature that appears as if it was built in a lab, Ludvig Aberg is already amongst the world’s best. I’d be extremely surprised if he wasn’t in the mix at next month’s PGA Championship at Valhalla.

Nostalgia Wins

I try to avoid as many cliches as possible, but there’s something about the Masters that brings out the sentimentality in me. Tiger Woods strategically making his way around Augusta National without all of the physical tools that made him arguably the most dominant athlete in the history of sports will always be riveting, regardless of what score he shoots. Woods made it interesting until a tough stretch of holes on Saturday, but he ultimately wore down, shooting 16 over for the week in difficult conditions. It’s remarkable that the 15-time major champion was able to put together a few solid rounds of golf despite barely playing any competitive golf in 2024. As long as Woods tees it up at Augusta, we will all continue to be mesmerized by it.

Verne Lundquist’s 40th and final Masters Tournament was also a must-watch aspect of the event. The iconic voice of Lundquist and his calls throughout the years still give me chills each time I hear them. Verne is an icon of the game and will be missed in future renditions of the Masters.

The Masters also brings another element that is unique to the tournament. Former champions turn back the clock to battle with the golf course again which creates some amazing stories. There are a few that stick out this year and were an absolute pleasure to witness. 61-year-old Vijay Singh made the cut for the first time since 2018 and shot a pretty incredible even-par, 72 on Sunday. 58-year-old José María Olazábal made the cut as well, reminding us why fellow Spaniard Jon Rahm sought his valuable advice prior to his Masters victory in 2022.

Regardless of who wins, the Masters always delivers.

Bryson Moves the Needle

Plenty will disagree with me on this point, but outside of Tiger Woods, and potentially Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth, no one moves the needle in golf as much as Bryson DeChambeau. The uniqueness in which Bryson approaches the game has always been fascinating, and if he gets near the top of the leaderboard at any major championship, whether it’s to root for him or against him, people are interested.

It began on Monday with a pretty bizarre story of DeChambeau using 3D-printed irons that got just got cleared for use by the USGA when the week began. It once again felt like a storyline that would only be possible with a character as eccentric as Bryson. He then raced off to a first-round lead in tough conditions, reminding the world of what made him such a great golfer to begin with. He made some mistakes on the weekend, but still finished a career best T6 at The Masters.

Bryson is more than just quirky; he is a former U.S. Amateur Champion and U.S. Open who I believe will contend for more majors in the future. I will continue to root for DeChambeau, but I’m perfectly content with the fact that plenty will root against him, and I encourage those people to do so. That’s what makes it fun.

LIV Walks Away Empty-Handed

Last year, there were a multitude of questions about LIV players coming into the year’s first major. They had played very limited tournament golf, and critics of LIV questioned whether the 54-hole events were enough to sharpen the players enough to compete against the best in the world on the biggest stage.

The results were fascinating, with LIV players all over the leaderboard. Brooks Koepka held the 36- and 54-hole lead, with Phil Mickelson and Patrick Reed finishing T2 and T4, giving LIV three golfers in the top-4 of the leaderboard.

This season, with even more time removed and with some more massive additions to the roster, the intrigue surrounding LIV players at Augusta was once again palpable. While some players, including Bryson DeChambeau, exceeded expectations, I can’t help but walk away from the Masters feeling underwhelmed by the performance of the LIV players.

Brooks Koepka finished runner-up last season and is a certified major championship killer. The 5-time major champ was never involved and simply didn’t have it at Augusta. Dustin Johnson put together a putrid performance, shooting 13 over for his two rounds, making it fair to wonder if his days of contending at major championships are over as he rapidly approaches his 40th birthday.

Jon Rahm and Joaquin Niemann were both players who were amongst the favorites this week, but Rahm was faced with the daunting duties of defending champion and Niemann proved he was still not quite ready to master the quirks of Augusta National, bleeding strokes both around and on the greens.

To be fair, when all was said and done, LIV had four players in the top twelve at The Masters. Tyrrell Hatton stormed the leaderboard early on Sunday, finishing T9 and earning himself an invite back to Augusta next season. Cam Smith and Patrick Reed put together gritty performances, which isn’t too surprising considering the fact that they both absolutely love Augusta National, but neither ever felt a real threat to win. There’s no doubt the players on LIV are good, and that’s why some encouraging leaderboard positions aren’t enough. They needed to contend.

With no players part of the storyline on Sunday, I view the first major of the year as a disappointment for LIV. The players will head into next month’s PGA Championship at Valhalla with a lot to prove.

Rory’s Struggles Continues

Rory struggling at Augusta National is no surprise at this point. The four-time major champion has now had 10 attempts to complete the career grand slam and has never had a chance to win. His T2 in 2022 was deceiving, the Northern Irishman stormed the leaderboard on Sunday, but was never in contention, and never got within three shots of the winner, Scottie Scheffler.

I didn’t expect Rory to win, but I have to admit that this year felt a bit different. McIlroy played the week prior to the Masters, which he typically doesn’t do, and finished third at the Valero Texas Open. He gained 7.56 strokes on approach and 2.0 strokes off the tee, which told me that his visit with world-renowned swing coach, Butch Harmon, after the Players Championship paid dividends.

McIlroy also approached the media quite differently. He cut his pre-tournament press conference short after only 10 minutes and seemed to be laser-focused on just playing golf.

Despite the different approach to the Masters, the results were the same. McIlroy struggled over the course of the week, finishing T22 (+4) and never sniffed a decent weekend position on the leaderboard. It’s back to the drawing board for McIlroy, and I have doubts that he will ever figure it out at Augusta.

Vincenzi: The 8 best prop bets for the 2024 Masters

average tour carry distance

We’ve finally reached The Masters and excitement is at an all-time high. The world of golf has been fractured for the better part of two years, but for a week at Augusta National, all of the outside noise will disappear. All of the best players in the world will be together seeking to make history.

  • RELATED:   Vincenzi’s 2024 Masters betting preview: Niemann to play star role at Augusta National

In addition to betting on The Masters champion. This is one of the few weeks of the year where there are so many more markets to explore, with value to be had in plenty of different categories.

Throughout this article, I’ll discuss all of my favorite props and players for the 2024 Masters.

Placement Bets:

Tony finau top 5 +750 (draftkings):.

I badly wanted to include Tony Finau in my outright betting selections, but I simply ran out of room on my card. Additionally, it’s slightly difficult to see him hitting the putts necessary to win the Masters on back nine on Sunday. However, I do strongly believe he will play great golf this week at Augusta National.

In his past 24 rounds, Finau ranks 4th in Strokes Gained: Approach is always amongst the best drivers of the golf ball in the game. Back in 2019, Finau had a great chance to win The Masters. I expect him to be hanging around over the weekend once again in 2024.

Gary Woodland Top 20 +550 (DraftKings), Gary Woodland to make the cut -110 (DraftKings):

Last season, Gary Woodland had his best ever finish at The Masters in his eleven tries. The 39-year-old finished T14 and played incredibly steady across all four rounds.

In Woodland’s most recent start at the Texas Children’s Houston Open, he struck the ball incredibly well. He led the field in Strokes Gained: Approach (+8.8) and Strokes Gained: Ball Striking (+10.0).

Gary has been working with Butch Harmon and absolutely flushing the ball both in tournaments and during practice.

Woodland appears to be healthy once again and in a great place physically and mentally. If he can build off his impressive performance at Augusta last year, he can place inside the top ten in 2024.

Additionally, the make the cut number on Woodland seems generous considering the number of players who miss the cut will be relatively small this week. Woodland is striking it well enough to make the cut even if he’s hindered by a balky putter once again.

Thorbjorn Olesen Top 20 +400 (FanDuel):

The Thunder Bear, Thorbjorn Olesen, made his Masters debut in 2013 and finished an incredibly impressive T6 for the week. In the two additional starts he’s made at Augusta National since then, the Dane has continued to be incredibly solid, finishing T44 and T21.

This week, Olesen heads into the week playing some good golf. He gained 3.8 strokes on approach and 5.52 strokes around the green at last week’s Valero Texas Open on his way to a strong T14 finish. Back in January, he won the Ras Al Khaimah Championship on the DP World Tour.

Olesen has the skill set to be successful at Augusta and seems primed for a good performance this week.

Top Nationalities:

Sergio garcia top spanish player +280 (draftkings):.

I believe Sergio Garcia can get into contention this week with the way he’s striking the ball in addition to his good vibes with a refurbished version of the Scotty Cameron that he used at the 1999 PGA Championship at Medinah.

I am slightly concerned about the emotional letdown he may face after losing in a playoff at LIV Miami, but I believe a veteran and former Masters champion should be able to regroup and focus on an event far more meaningful.

This is essentially a tournament head-to-head with Jon Rahm at +280. While Rahm deserves to be respected this week, the history of the lack of success of defending champions at The Masters is difficult to ignore.

Joaquin Niemann Top South American Player -230 (FanDuel):

While I hate paying this much juice, I don’t see a world in which Joaquin Niemann isn’t the top South American this week at The Masters. Joaco comes in playing better golf than anyone in the world not named Scottie Scheffler and has a serious chance to win the green jacket.

He only needs to beat two players: Emiliano Grillo and Camilo Villegas.

Tournament Head-to-Heads:

Justin thomas -110 over collin morikawa.

JT isn’t having his best season but is playing a lot better than he is getting credit for at the moment. In the past three months, there are only six players on the PGA Tour who have averaged 1.7 Strokes Gained: Tee to Green or better. Justin Thomas (+1.7) is one of the six and is currently tied with Rory McIlroy (+1.7).

Morikawa, on the other hand, has been extremely poor with his irons, which is incredibly uncharacteristic for him. I can’t help but feel like something is completely off with the two-time major champion.

Tony Finau -110 over Wyndham Clark

I explained in the placement section why I’m so high on Tony Finau this week. With how well he’s striking the ball, it seems as if his floor is extremely high. I’m not sure if he can make the putts to win a green jacket but I believe he will be in the mix similarly to 2019 when Tiger Woods emerged from a crowded pack of contenders.

Clark is a debutant, and while some debutants have had success at The Masters, it certainly poses a challenge. I also don’t believe Augusta National suits Clark as well as some of the other major championship venues.

average tour carry distance

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Jason Day what’s in the bag accurate as of the RBC Heritage.  Driver: Ping G430 LST (9 degrees @10) Shaft: TPT...

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The Golf Mentor

Carry Distances

The carry of a golf shot is how far the ball travels before it hits the ground for the first time. In other words, it is distance to first bounce. Often you are only concerned with how far the ball travel, but at crucial times, you are much more interested in the carry. It is also important to keep in mind the ball run which is how far the ball runs after the first bounce. The sum of carry and run is the total distance.

You will care about the carry of a club when you are hitting over water, a hazard or onto a raised green. In these situations it is crucial that the ball does not bounce till it over the obstacle or has landed on the raised green. So how to you estimate the carry of a club?

The carry tends to increase the lower the loft of the club. The reason for this is that the lower the loft, the lower of the starting angle of the ball flight, and correspondingly, the lower the landing angle of the ball. From the viewpoint of physics, the lower the landing angle, the greater the horizontal component of the velocity, so the further the ball will run once it lands. Just think about a shot that goes very high, it will come down and a very steep angle with most of the energy in the vertical direction, so the ball can actually plug into the ground, meaning there is no run at all. On the other hand, consider a ball hit at a very low angle, when it lands it will at a small angle and the ball will tend to run a long distance after that first bounce. Such a shot will almost never plug into the ground.

By far the best way to find out the carry of each of your clubs is go to a driving range that has distance markers and note down the carry distance and the total distance of each club. Do this many times for each club. For each club choose the median carry and the median total distance. If you have not had a chance to do this, then the following table will give you an approximate idea of how the flat carry will vary with club loft. The flat carry is the carry on level ground.

Effect of conditions on Carry

If you are a consistent golfer, the carry distance will be fairly predictable. The most important factors to take into account are the wind and elevation of the target area.

A rule of thumb for elevation is to add one club length for every 10 yards of elevation, and conversely subtract one club length if the landing area is lower in elevation by ten yards. A simple rule of thumb for wind speed is increase the yardage by 1% for every mile per hour of swing speed. So if the total distance is 150 yards and you are hitting into a 10 m.p.h wind, then adjust by 10% or 15 yards, so assume you need to hit 165 yards. On the other hand if the wind swings around on the same hole so that it is behind you, then you would only need to use a 135 yard shot.

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Golf Sidekick

Golf Club Distance Charts By Age, Gender And Skill Level

Last Updated on January 9, 2024 by Matt Greene

How far should you hit the ball?

How do you compare to others?

It's always good to know that age, gender, and skillset are the biggest differentiators so you don't make unrealistic comparisons.

I did so much research on this article to bring you the most up to date information to help you quickly skim the tables and charts about golf distance.

average tour carry distance

My golf distance charts show the key elements that influence how far you can hit each golf club: 

  • Swing speed
  • Smash factor
  • Quality and optimization of equipment

These factors are all heavily influenced by your physiology, skill, age and strength or flexibility levels. Very often, you can optimize each area, with some training or coaching or both.

Golf Club Distance Chart by Swing Speed

Swing speed is a major determining factor the golf club distances. It is not the only factor but if 100 people strike the ball the same, the fastest swings will carry the ball further.

  • Most golfers are around 90 mph driver swing speed. 
  • The average swing speed on the PGA Tour is around 114 mph. 
  • 150 mph is the top range and only long drive competitors will be swinging toward this range.

NOTE: The swing speed at the top of each column is driver swing speed. We use this as a general gauge to estimate the distance of each club thereafter.

average tour carry distance

How do I swing the club faster?

You've compared yourself to the numbers in the chart but you want to hit it longer. Almost everyone does and there are 3 ways to swing the club faster:

  • Get lessons on proper mechanics with a professional swing coach. They will utilize all your physiological elements and limitations to the maximum, as well as help you hit the ball in the center of the club face. You can add as much as 10 mph to your driver swing speed with correct technique.
  • Get stronger and more mobile in the gym. Strength training plus mobility work with a trainer will increase your swing speed guaranteed. You will have a wider range of motion in your muscles and your strength will 100% translate into more speed. You can add 10-20mph to your swing depending on how advanced your strength and mobility currently is.
  • Get lighter golf equipment fitted to your swing. Lighter shafts can help increase your swing speed 2-5 mph.

These are the only ways to improve swing speed but the MOST important factor is the coaching and practice so that you can HIT THE SWEET SPOT of the golf club. 

The center strike means you send as much energy into the ball as possible and we measure how well you hit the ball using the Smash Factor.

What is  Smash Factor ?

Smash Factor is ball speed divided by club speed.

For example: 150 mph ball speed / 100 mph swing speed = 1.50 Smash Factor

The number calculated gives a ratio to show how much energy is moved from the club head to the golf ball at impact.

Low Smash Factor numbers mean less energy is transferred, while higher Smash Factor numbers mean you send more energy from your golf club into the golf ball.

The optimum Smash Factor number for excellent ball striking with the driver is 1.50 Smash Factor.

Ideal Smash Factor for every club

The PGA Tour golfers are the best in the world so we can use their averages to assume the best smash factors in the world. If you can attain these smash factor numbers as stated by Trackman , you are striking the ball as good as you possibly can.

Note how the smash factor decreases as the loft increases.

smash factor for pros

Skill level affects smash factor 

Distance is affected by the swing speed but MAINLY the quality of the strike related to that swing speed.

In other words, how close to the center of the club face you hit the ball will determine how your swing speed power is transferred into the golf ball.

If you employ a swing coach, they will assist you in hitting the ball in the middle of the face, or closer to the middle.

That will take your existing swing speed and optimize it by being more efficient with where you hit the ball on the club. 

The measurement we use for the quality of your strike is called Smash Factor.

Equipment affects swing speed and smash factor

The pros on tour have optimized equipment to their specific technique and skill level as well as body shape and strength.

The same swing speed in a PGA Tour pro will send the ball much further than an amateur golfer of higher handicap who has a similar swing speed.

The PGA Tour players technique is perfect so if you and a Tour pro hit the ball the same, the pro would still hit the ball further because their equipment has been customized to their exact swing.  

A fitting can help to optimize your strength and swing for more distance.

Average Golf Club Distance For Male Golfers By Skill Level

From 'Good Golfer' onward, the 2 iron down to 5 iron should improve as confidence and technique improve, thus bringing more swing speed. 

Beginner Golfer:  New to the game - first 6-12 months.

Average Golfer:  15-24 handicap .

Good Golfer:  6-14 handicap.

Excellent Golfer:  Below 6 handicap.

golf distance chart by skill levels

Swing speed charts by age and gender

Swing speed is a vital factor in determining the distance you hit the ball.

The swing speed, with a strike near the middle of the club face makes the ball go further.

A poor strike with high swing speed will go less distance. 

A pro golfer swinging at the same speed as an amateur gets wildly different distance numbers because they hit the ball in the center of the face often. 

Therefore, if you want to improve your distance with the same swing speed, you can work on improving your strike closer to the middle of the face.

Average swing speed by age and gender chart

In this chart we show the 50th percentile driver swing speed for each gender and age range according to the research done by TPI .

average tour carry distance

Driver Swing Speed Chart by Golf Skill Level

Confidence and skill make a big difference when hitting the driver efficiently and out the sweet spot.

Beginners with a driver  will be more tentative and have less effective mechanics.

Mid handicappers will be more adept at the driver  because of experience or lessons.

Advanced golfers swing with confidence from hitting a lot of golf balls and taking lessons with a pro.

PGA Tour golfers have optimized every aspect of the game with the driver and are the very tip of the spear. 

Is a 250 yard drive good?

Yes it is very good.  According to Arccos  and Shotscope , between 15% and 31% of golfers hit 250 yards or more.

Here is a video of me breaking it down.

is 250 yards a good drive?

Ball Speed To Club Head Speed Chart for Driver

The ball speed off the driver face is dependent on the strike.

If your strike or Smash Factor is good, you will hit the ball further with your swing speed than the same speed with a bad strike.

Below, we take the club head speed and use a Smash Factor of around 1.42 which is 0.08 away from a perfect strike.

Ball Speed To Club Head Speed Chart for Driver

What swing speed hits 250 yard drives?

A swing speed of around 105 mph with the driver, and ball speed of around 150 mph  will produce a 250 yard drive.

Ball Speed To Club Head Speed for 7 iron

A 7 iron optimal smash factor is 1.33. That is the PGA Tour average.  Remember for the driver it is 1.50

The ball speed off the 7 iron is determined by the swing speed and smash factor.

As the clubs get shorter, the ideal smash factor actually changes.

What distance will you get from a 7 iron at every speed of swing?

What swing speed hits the 7 iron 150 yards?

A swing speed of around 76 mph with the 7 iron, ball speed of around 105 mph and dynamic loft of 21°  will produce a 150 yard carry shot.

Golf Club Distance Charts Other Important Factors

Every club has a different loft and more loft goes less distance, while less loft goes longer distance in combination with longer golf shafts. 

Driver usually goes furthest while the lob wedge around 60 degrees goes the shortest. 

The golf clubs of today go a lot further since the manufacturers started creating cavity back golf clubs in combination with lower lofts for the same clubs. 

Every club is between 2 and 5 degrees lower in loft in the current day, which automatically increases distance by up to 15 yards per iron compared to prior times. Driver lofts cannot get much lower as people will not be able to hit them. In order to hit a driver with a loft below 9 degrees, your swing speed needs to be incredibly fast. 

An important factor to note for slower swing speeds, is that a higher lofted fairway wood or higher lofted driver can actually GAIN you distance because low lofted clubs are harder to launch at slower swings. Most golfers should be playing fairway woods with a loft that does not go below 16 or 17 degrees . 

The club heads are bigger for all golf clubs in modern times with much larger sweet spots. With the addition of lighter shafts in both the irons and the woods, the ball speeds and swing speeds are higher as well. Check out our article on the flex of shafts in the current game. 

Golf Club Distance Charts of PGA Tour Golfers

Why are modern golfers longer than prior generations, physical fitness.

Most modern pros are in the gym multiple times per week and in the physio offices often. In prior generations during the Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus days, the pros were regular people who even used to enjoy a smoke and a drink on the course. 

Bryson Dechambeau is an example of someone who bulked up in order to hit it further and it made a big difference. The side effects of that can be disputed as he has slimmed down again.

Tiger Woods was one of the first modern day pros to begin working in the gym. His huge transformation to a big, strong guy inspired a whole new generation of golfers and now most up and coming pros are hitting the ball longer than even this generation of pros.

Club advancements

Lofts have changed and the lower lofts in irons will change how far the ball appears to go with the same 'number' iron.

A 7 iron from the 80s may have had 40° of loft while a current 7 iron can have as low as 28° of loft. That 12 degree difference makes a 20-30 yard difference in distance. 

The other important factor especially with the woods and drivers, is the materials of the clubs. The drivers now are lightweight titanium and carbon, with graphite shafts, optimized for huge distance.

That alone makes an astonishing difference when we compare to the old persimmon wooden clubs and heavy steel shafts.

The golf ball changed a lot with the release of the Pro V1. Golf balls just went further than ever before. 

They spin less, they go straighter and they have advanced to a point that the ruling authorities of golf want to make them go shorter to preserve the golf courses.

If the pros hit the ball too long, they need to extend the golf courses, and there is a lkmited amount fo land available. 

The balata golf ball is significantly shorter than the current urethane covered solid core golf balls they use today on the Tour. 

You can compare how you shape up against the average golfer, the senior golfer, the pro golfer and the advanced golfer. 

The key though is to understand your own game and your distances so you can more effectively plan your game and piece together a good golf score. When you fully understand and accept your distances that you hit the golf ball, you will score better.

For the pros and the advanced players, the distance they hit each club is not a matter of ego. It's a matter of 'which club gets the job done?' and they use that.

You can too, whichever distance you hit it.

average tour carry distance

SwingTalks

PGA Tour Trackman Averages: Analyzing Player Performance And Improving Golf Skills

August 18, 2023

Learn how PGA Tour Trackman averages can help analyze player performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and improve golf skills. Explore common metrics like , , launch angle, spin rate , and carry distance for both professionals and amateur golfers.

What is Trackman?

Definition and explanation.

Trackman is a cutting-edge technology that has revolutionized the game of golf. It is a portable radar system that provides detailed data and analysis on various aspects of a golfer’s swing and ball flight. With its advanced sensors and algorithms, Trackman captures and analyzes data in real-time, offering valuable insights into a player’s performance.

Trackman is used by professional golfers, coaches, and club fitters to enhance their understanding of the swing and improve overall performance. It has become an essential tool in the world of golf, helping players reach new levels of precision and accuracy.

How Does Trackman Work?

Trackman operates on the principle of Doppler radar, which measures the frequency shift of electromagnetic waves. The system consists of two radars – one tracks the golf ball from the moment it is struck, while the other tracks the clubhead during the swing. By analyzing the interaction between the club and the ball, Trackman provides a comprehensive picture of the swing dynamics and ball flight.

The radar system captures multiple data points throughout the entire process, including , , , and spin rate. These metrics are then processed and presented in a user-friendly format, allowing players and coaches to gain valuable insights into their performance.

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Trackman’s accuracy and reliability are unparalleled, making it the gold standard in golf tracking technology. Its ability to capture and analyze data in real-time provides immediate feedback, allowing players to make adjustments and improvements on the spot.

With Trackman, every aspect of the swing can be analyzed and optimized. From the moment the clubhead makes contact with the ball to the trajectory and distance it travels, Trackman leaves no stone unturned. This level of detail and precision has made it an indispensable tool for golfers at all levels.

By utilizing Trackman, players can gain a deeper understanding of their swing mechanics and make data-driven decisions to enhance their performance on the course. Whether it’s adjusting swing mechanics, optimizing equipment setup, or tailoring training programs, Trackman’s insights provide a roadmap to improvement.

Importance of Trackman Averages

Analyzing player performance.

When it comes to improving one’s golf game, understanding and analyzing player performance is crucial. This is where Trackman, a state-of-the-art technology, comes into play. Trackman provides golfers with valuable data and insights that can help them identify their strengths and weaknesses.

By analyzing player performance using Trackman, golfers can gain a deeper understanding of their swing mechanics, , , launch angle, spin rate, and carry distance. This data allows players to assess their overall performance and make necessary adjustments to their game.

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Trackman’s ability to accurately measure clubhead speed, , and provides golfers with a comprehensive view of their swing mechanics. This information helps players identify any inefficiencies or flaws in their technique. By pinpointing areas that need improvement, golfers can work on refining their swing mechanics and ultimately enhance their performance on the course.

Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses

One of the key benefits of using Trackman is its ability to identify a golfer’s strengths and weaknesses. By analyzing the data provided by Trackman, players can determine which aspects of their game they excel in and which areas need improvement.

For example, Trackman’s metric can reveal whether a golfer consistently hits shots with too much or too little spin. This information can help players make adjustments to their swing to achieve optimal spin rates, which greatly affects the distance and control of the golf ball.

Another important metric provided by Trackman is the carry distance. This metric shows how far a golfer’s shots travel through the air before landing. By comparing their carry distance with the average distances of PGA Tour players, golfers can assess their power and accuracy off the tee or with different clubs. This knowledge allows players to focus on areas that need improvement, such as increasing their or optimizing their equipment setup.

Trackman also enables golfers to compare their performance with that of elite players on the PGA Tour. By examining the average , , launch angle, spin rate, and carry distance of professional golfers, players can set realistic goals for themselves. They can also gain valuable insights into the techniques and strategies employed by top players, which can inform their own training programs.

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Common Trackman Metrics

Trackman is a revolutionary technology that has transformed the way we analyze and understand the game of golf. By providing accurate and detailed data on various metrics, Trackman has become an essential tool for players, coaches, and enthusiasts alike. In this section, we will explore some of the most common Trackman metrics and their significance in improving performance.

Clubhead Speed

One of the key metrics measured by Trackman is , which refers to the velocity at which the clubhead is moving through impact. Clubhead speed is a crucial factor in determining the distance a golf ball will travel. A higher clubhead speed usually results in a longer shot, provided other factors like angle of attack and spin rate are optimized.

Trackman allows players to accurately measure their clubhead speed and compare it to the averages of professional golfers. This information can provide valuable insights into a player’s physical capabilities and potential areas for improvement. By focusing on increasing , players can unlock greater distance off the tee and gain a competitive edge.

Ball speed, another important metric provided by Trackman, is the speed at which the golf ball leaves the clubface after impact. It is influenced by factors such as clubhead speed, angle of attack, and the efficiency of the strike. Ball speed is directly correlated to distance, with higher ball speeds resulting in longer shots.

Trackman enables players to monitor and analyze their , allowing them to make adjustments to their swing mechanics and equipment setup. By optimizing , players can maximize their distance potential and achieve greater consistency in their shots.

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Launch Angle

The is the angle at which the ball takes off after being struck. It is a critical metric as it determines the trajectory and the amount of carry distance the ball will achieve. The optimal launch angle varies depending on the club and the desired shot outcome.

Trackman provides accurate measurements of launch angle, allowing players to fine-tune their swings to achieve the ideal launch conditions. By adjusting the launch angle, players can optimize their distance, accuracy, and control, ensuring their shots reach their intended targets with precision.

Spin rate refers to the amount of spin the ball has after being struck. It plays a significant role in determining the ball’s trajectory, control, and stopping power upon landing. A proper can help players navigate challenging course conditions and execute different shot shapes.

Trackman captures spin rate data, enabling players to analyze the effectiveness of their shots. By understanding their spin rates, players can make necessary adjustments to their swings and equipment, ensuring the desired spin characteristics for each shot. This knowledge is particularly crucial for controlling approach shots and maximizing scoring opportunities.

Carry Distance

Carry distance is the distance the ball travels through the air before touching the ground. It is a vital metric for players as it directly affects the target area they can reach and the potential hazards they need to navigate. Carry distance is influenced by factors such as , ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate.

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Trackman provides accurate measurements of carry distance, allowing players to assess their shot performance objectively. By tracking carry distance, players can identify any inconsistencies in their shots and work on optimizing the factors that contribute to longer and more efficient carries. This information is invaluable for planning strategies on the course and making informed decisions during gameplay.

Trackman Averages for PGA Tour Players

When it comes to professional golf, the PGA Tour is the pinnacle of competition. The players who make it to this level possess incredible skill and precision in their game. Trackman, a cutting-edge technology in the world of golf, provides invaluable insights into the performance of these elite players. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key trackman averages for PGA Tour players.

Top Clubhead Speed Averages

Clubhead speed is a crucial factor in determining the distance a golf ball will travel. PGA Tour players are known for their ability to generate impressive clubhead speeds, and the trackman data confirms this. On average, PGA Tour players have clubhead speeds that surpass 110 miles per hour . This incredible speed allows them to unleash the full potential of their swings and achieve remarkable distances off the tee.

Ball Speed Averages of Elite Players

Clubhead speed is just one piece of the puzzle; another vital factor is . Ball speed is directly influenced by the impact between the clubface and the ball. PGA Tour players consistently achieve ball speeds that exceed 160 miles per hour . This high is a testament to their exceptional timing, technique, and power. It enables them to maximize the distance covered by the golf ball, giving them a significant advantage on the course.

Launch Angle Trends on Tour

The refers to the angle at which the golf ball takes off after impact. It plays a crucial role in determining the trajectory and distance covered by the ball. Analyzing trackman data reveals interesting trends in launch angles among PGA Tour players. On average, these professionals tend to launch the ball at angles ranging from 10 to 15 degrees with their drivers. This optimal launch angle allows for a balance between distance and accuracy, ensuring the ball carries far while still maintaining control.

Spin Rate Averages for Different Shots

Spin rate is another critical metric measured by trackman. It refers to the amount of rotation the golf ball experiences while in flight. PGA Tour players have a remarkable ability to control the spin rate of their shots, depending on the desired outcome. For example, when hitting a driver off the tee, they typically aim for a lower to maximize distance. On the other hand, when hitting approach shots into greens, they often increase the to enhance control and stopping power.

Average Carry Distance by Club

Carry distance is the distance the golf ball travels through the air before it touches the ground. Trackman data provides fascinating insights into the average carry distances achieved by PGA Tour players with different clubs. For instance, with their drivers, these professionals can carry the ball over 280 yards, showcasing their incredible power and precision. As they transition to shorter clubs, such as irons and wedges, the average carry distances decrease but still remain impressive, often exceeding 150 yards.

In summary, trackman data offers a glimpse into the extraordinary capabilities of PGA Tour players. Their clubhead speeds, ball speeds, launch angles, spin rates, and carry distances are a testament to the remarkable skills they possess. By analyzing these averages, golfers at all levels can gain valuable insights into the areas they need to focus on to improve their own game. Whether it’s increasing , optimizing launch angles, or controlling spin rates, trackman data provides a wealth of information for players looking to take their game to the next level.

(Unordered list:)

  • PGA Tour players exhibit clubhead speeds surpassing 110 miles per hour.
  • Ball speeds achieved by elite players exceed 160 miles per hour.
  • Launch angles for PGA Tour players range from 10 to 15 degrees with drivers.
  • Spin rates vary depending on the desired outcome of the shot.
  • Carry distances for drivers can exceed 280 yards, while shorter clubs still achieve impressive distances exceeding 150 yards.

Using Trackman Data for Improvement

Trackman is not just a tool for analyzing your golf swing; it can also be a powerful tool for improving your game. By using the data provided by Trackman, you can make adjustments to your swing mechanics, optimize your equipment setup, and tailor your training programs to address specific areas of improvement.

Adjusting Swing Mechanics

One of the key benefits of using Trackman is the ability to analyze your swing mechanics in great detail. By looking at metrics such as , ball speed , launch angle, , and carry distance, you can identify any flaws or inefficiencies in your swing. For example, if you notice that your launch angle is consistently too low, you may need to work on increasing your loft at impact. On the other hand, if your spin rate is too high, you may need to focus on making more solid contact with the ball. By making these adjustments to your swing mechanics, you can optimize your ball flight and increase your overall performance on the course.

Optimizing Equipment Setup

Another area where Trackman can be incredibly useful is in optimizing your equipment setup. By analyzing the data provided by Trackman, you can determine if your current club setup is the best fit for your swing. For example, if you find that you consistently have a low launch angle with your driver, it may be worth experimenting with a different loft or shaft flex to achieve a higher launch. Similarly, if you notice that your is too high with your irons, you may want to try different shaft options to help lower your spin. By fine-tuning your equipment setup based on the data from Trackman, you can maximize your distance and accuracy on the course.

Tailoring Training Programs

Trackman data can also be used to tailor your training programs to address specific areas of improvement. By identifying your strengths and weaknesses through the various metrics provided by Trackman, you can develop a training plan that focuses on the areas that need the most attention. For example, if you consistently have a low clubhead speed compared to the average PGA Tour player, you can incorporate exercises and drills that specifically target increasing your . If your carry distance with certain clubs is shorter than desired, you can work on improving your and through targeted training exercises. By customizing your training programs based on the data from Trackman, you can accelerate your progress and reach your golfing goals faster.

  • Analyze metrics such as , , , spin rate, and carry distance
  • Identify flaws or inefficiencies in your swing
  • Make adjustments to improve , spin rate, and overall ball flight
  • Use Trackman data to determine if your current club setup is the best fit for your swing
  • Experiment with different lofts, shaft flexes, and options to optimize and spin rate
  • Maximize distance and accuracy on the course by fine-tuning your equipment setup
  • Identify strengths and weaknesses through Trackman metrics
  • Develop a training plan that focuses on areas needing improvement
  • Incorporate exercises and drills to increase , , and carry distance

Trackman Averages vs. Amateur Golfers

Golf is a sport that requires precision and skill. Many amateur golfers aspire to reach the level of professionals and achieve the same level of performance on the golf course. One tool that has revolutionized the game and helped players of all levels improve is Trackman. By analyzing various metrics, Trackman provides valuable insights into a golfer’s swing and performance. In this section, we will explore the differences between trackman averages for professional golfers and amateur golfers.

Differences in Clubhead Speed

Clubhead speed is a crucial factor in determining the distance and accuracy of a golf shot. Professional golfers who have honed their skills over years of practice often exhibit higher clubhead speeds compared to amateur golfers. This increased speed allows professionals to generate more power, resulting in longer drives and greater control over the ball.

Amateur golfers, on the other hand, may have lower clubhead speeds due to various factors such as lack of experience, technique, or physical limitations. However, this does not mean that amateurs cannot improve their clubhead speed. Through proper training and guidance, amateurs can work on their swing mechanics and increase their over time.

Disparities in Ball Speed

Ball speed is closely related to clubhead speed and has a significant impact on the distance a golf ball travels. When comparing trackman averages, professional golfers tend to achieve higher ball speeds than amateur golfers. This is primarily because professionals have mastered the art of striking the ball with the sweet spot of the clubface, resulting in maximum energy transfer to the ball.

Amateur golfers, on the other hand, may struggle to consistently strike the ball with the sweet spot, leading to lower ball speeds. This can be attributed to factors such as swing inconsistencies, improper alignment, or lack of awareness of the clubface impact position. By working on their swing mechanics and receiving proper coaching, amateur golfers can improve their and enjoy longer and more accurate shots.

Variances in Launch Angle

Launch angle refers to the angle at which the ball takes off from the clubface during impact. It plays a crucial role in determining the trajectory and distance of a golf shot. When comparing trackman averages, it is evident that professional golfers tend to have more consistent and optimal launch angles compared to amateur golfers.

Professional golfers have the ability to control their launch angles, allowing them to achieve the desired ball flight and maximize distance. They understand the importance of optimizing launch angles based on the club being used and the specific shot requirements. On the other hand, amateur golfers may struggle with inconsistent launch angles, resulting in unpredictable ball flights and reduced distance. By working with a golf professional or utilizing the data provided by Trackman, amateurs can analyze their launch angles and make adjustments to improve their overall performance.

Spin Rate Contrasts

Spin rate refers to the amount of spin imparted on the ball during impact. It significantly affects the ball’s ability to stay in the air, control its trajectory, and influence its stopping power on the greens. When comparing trackman averages, professional golfers tend to exhibit more consistent and optimal spin rates compared to amateur golfers.

Professional golfers understand the delicate balance between spin and distance. They have the ability to generate the appropriate spin rates for different shots, allowing them to control the ball’s flight and landing. Amateur golfers, on the other hand, may struggle with inconsistent spin rates, leading to less control over the ball’s flight and limited stopping power on the greens. By utilizing the data provided by Trackman and analyzing their spin rates, amateur golfers can make adjustments to their swing mechanics and equipment setup to optimize their spin rates and improve their overall performance.

Discrepancies in Carry Distance

Carry distance refers to the distance the ball travels through the air before it lands. It is a critical metric that determines how far a golfer can hit each club. When comparing trackman averages, professional golfers tend to achieve greater carry distances compared to amateur golfers.

Professional golfers have the ability to consistently generate high clubhead speeds, optimal launch angles, and appropriate spin rates, resulting in longer carry distances. They have honed their skills and techniques over time, allowing them to maximize their distance potential. Amateur golfers often struggle to achieve the same level of consistency, leading to shorter carry distances. However, by analyzing the data provided by Trackman and working on their swing mechanics and equipment setup, amateurs can make improvements and increase their carry distances.

In conclusion, Trackman provides valuable insights into the performance of both professional and amateur golfers. When comparing trackman averages, it is evident that professional golfers tend to exhibit higher clubhead speeds, ball speeds, more consistent launch angles, optimal spin rates, and greater carry distances. However, this should not discourage amateur golfers. By utilizing the data and feedback provided by Trackman, working on their swing mechanics, and seeking professional guidance, amateurs can make significant improvements and bridge the gap between trackman averages for professionals and themselves. Remember, golf is a game of continuous improvement, and with dedication and practice, anyone can enhance their performance on the golf course.

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average tour carry distance

As a lifelong golf enthusiast, Stacey E. Black has spent countless hours on the greens, perfecting their swing and studying the sport's rich history. With a passion for sharing their knowledge with fellow golfers, they founded SwingTalks as a platform to offer expert tips, insights, and news about everything related to golf.

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What Is the Average Distance With Each Golf Club?

This golf club distance chart can help your game

Golfer pulling driver out of club bag

  • DESCRIPTION Golfer pulling driver out of club bag
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The average distance golfers hit each club varies widely. A PGA Tour player hits a 7-iron between 172-215 yards. Meanwhile, a short-hitting amateur male golfer averages 120 yards with the same club.

Average Golf Club Distance Chart

Here's how far mid-handicap male golfers can expect to hit each club. Of course, specific distances for each individual player will vary based on several factors, which we'll detail shortly. 

According to the USGA, golf’s governing body in the United States, the average male amateur golfer hits driver 217 yards , as recently as 2019. That same year, the PGA Tour average driving distance was 293.9 yards. Men, women, seniors, juniors, professionals, amateurs and beginners all hit their clubs different distances. The following golf club distance charts break down the average distances of golfers at many different levels of the game.

Key Factors to Achieve Distance

The total distance achieved by a golf club is based on several factors, including swing speed, the club’s loft, the carry distance achieved (Note: The carry distance is the yardage from the point of impact to the point of landing.), and even the weather.

Swing Speed

The faster your swing speed, the greater the distance. According to TrackMan , the average PGA Tour player has a driver club speed of 113 MPH, resulting in a 275 yard carry. Meanwhile, LPGA Tour players average 94 MPH with driver, and carry the ball 218 yards. 

Since we know that amateur male golfers hit driver an average of 217 yards, we can infer that average male golfers and LPGA Tour players have similar swing speeds, making the LPGA Tour average distances with each club a good benchmark for average amateur male golfers.

Each club face has a unique loft. For example, a driver is designed for distance and usually has only 8-13 degrees of loft. In comparison, a pitching wedge is designed to get airborne, with 41-46 degrees of loft .

Golfer writing on scorecard in cart

How to Accurately Measure How Far You Hit Your Clubs

According to thegolfmentor.com , distances achieved by short, mid and long hitters can vary by as much as 50% depending on the club and the gender (see actual average distance ranges below). Men tend to have faster swing speeds and hit the ball farther. However, many women are long hitters, with some LPGA pros hitting the ball as far, or farther, than men.

Distance can be greatly affected by the weather conditions. Hitting a ball into a strong wind will greatly influence distance, and a dry golf course will give you more roll, and therefore more distance, than a soggy course.

Average Distances for Men

Average distances for senior tour players.

The Best Drivers for Seniors of 2023

The 10 Best Drivers for Senior Golfers in 2023 for Huge Distance

Average Distances for PGA Tour Players

Average distances for women.

The Best Drivers for Women of 2023

The 9 Best Drivers for Women of 2023

Average Distances for LPGA Tour Players

Tip: chart your distances for all your clubs.

Keep track of your average golf stats and scores with GolfLink's personalized game tracker. Sign up for free and create yours now!

Go to the driving range and hit ten golf balls with each club. Keep track of the ten distances you achieve with each club. Repeat the charting monthly, or more frequently if you are actively working on your swing.

The distance achieved by a specific golf club will vary from player to player and from day to day based on the conditions. Tour distance information was compiled from stats on pgatour.com, lpga.com, TrackMan.com and golfwrx.com.

Golf Swing Speed Chart: Averages By Age, Skill, and More

Swing speed charts can tell you the average speeds by age, skill, gender, and more. You can also compare how club head speeds compare to distance.

As a PGA-certified golf coach, I know I am not alone in being a numbers and statistics geek. Many of my students are hungry to compare their numbers with their favorite pro golfers using charts, graphs, and other visual representations.

Many swing speed charts exist today. Some break down clubhead and ball speed by a golfer’s handicap, gender, age, years playing, and many other areas. What many may find surprising by some of the data is that most golfers do not swing as fast as they think nor hit the ball as far as they claim to.

My goal in this article is to share all of the latest information and statistics regarding swing speed in golf. I’ll also share other related information, such as the distance at which golfers hit the ball. Other information relevant to this topic will be shared as well.

Here is a breakdown of what you can find if you read on:

  • Average Swing Speed By Age and Gender
  • Average Swing Speed By Handicap
  • Average PGA TOUR Club Head Speeds and Distances
  • PGA TOUR Average Club Head Speeds and Carry Distance Per Club
  • Average LPGA TOUR Club Head Speeds and Distances
  • LPGA TOUR Average Club Head Speeds and Carry Distance Per Club
  • The Fastest Swingers In Golf

Tips To Improve Your Swing Speed

So get ready, and make sure to buckle up. Things are going to get fast!

Average Swing Speed Chart By Age and Gender

Average swing speed chart by handicap, pga tour fastest 10 driver swing speed averages.

  • PGA TOUR Slowest 10 Driver Swing Speed Averages

Fast Swing Speed Does Not Always Equal Longer Drives

Swing speed and driving distance matters, but you can win without them, pga tour average clubhead speed and carry distance per club, lpga tour fastest 10 driver distance averages, lpga tour average clubhead speed and carry distance per club, the fastest swing speeds in golf, traditional tips for getting faster swing speeds, non-traditional tips for getting faster swing speeds, what is the mach 3 speed training system, final thoughts.

golf swing speed chart by age gender skill

*Estimates due to a lack of participants in this age and gender group

** The data in the chart was compiled from a Titleist Performance Institute  (TPI) study conducted in 2019.

Club head swing speed contributes to the distance a golfer can hit a golf ball. Countless factors contribute to how fast a golfer can swing, such as age, flexibility, strength, gender, and the efficiency of their swing mechanics.

The first factor I wanted to chart concerning swing speed is age and gender. The following chart represents the average swing speeds with a driver for several different age groups and by male and female golfers within them.

Age significantly affects how much clubhead speed a golfer can produce on average.  Here is the main observation about swing speed versus age and gender:

  • As you age, swing speed generally gets slower

However, as you can see from the chart, age does not necessarily have to slow you down completely. Some golfers in the 50 – 59 and 60+ age groups can still swing significantly fast. It all depends on how flexible someone can stay as they age.

Check this out: What Are the Golf Club Distances for Each Club? (Charts for All Skill Levels)

*Data from PGATour.com  as of 7/9/23  

**Data from PGATour.com  as of 7/9/23

Average swing speeds by handicap data from TrackMan

Let’s look at average swing speeds by handicap level for male golfers.

A golfer’s playing ability and how efficiently they swings the club also directly impact how fast their swing speed is. When golfers understand how the swing is supposed to work and can execute those fundamentals correctly, the result is a much more efficient swing. That efficient swing will lead to an increase in swing speed.

Read on: What Driver Loft Should You Use? (Full Chart Based On Swing Speed)

Average PGA TOUR Club Head Speeds

average tour carry distance

PGA TOUR professionals are among the best golfers in the world, so many golfers look to them as guides to playing the game correctly.

Note: Even though these speeds happened on a specific date in 2024, they’re still applicable today since swing speeds don’t rise significantly over time.

*Compiled through Rocket Mortgage Classic, 7/2/23

  • Tour Pro Golfer Average Swing Speed – 115.24        
  • Tour Pro Golfer Average Driving Distance – 299.40

PGA TOUR Slowest  10 Driver Swing Speed Averages

*All data from PGATour.com

**Compiled through Rocket Mortgage Classic, 7/2/23

As you may have noticed, some of the PGA TOUR pros in the top 20 in swing speed with the driver are outside the top 20 in average driver distance. This is because of a stat called Smash Factor, which measures the efficiency of a swing.

Smash Factor  is calculated by dividing the ball speed by the clubhead speed. Additionally, where the ball comes in contact with the clubface matters quite a bit as well.

Here are some examples of players with fast swing speeds who are outside the top 20 in driving distance.

Of those short knockers in the bottom 10 on the PGA TOUR this season in swing speed, and many of whom are very near the bottom in driving distance, all but two have a PGA TOUR victory on their resume.

*Data compiled from TrackMan’s 2017 PGA TOUR Data Points

I use data from TrackMan all the time with my students as a reference for what peak performance stats look like.

Above, I have pulled out the club head speed and carry distances for each club, on average, on the PGA TOUR.

TrackMan notes that these AVERAGE stats from 2017 have mostly stayed the same over the last six years.  The top players on the PGA TOUR have gotten faster and carry the ball longer, but, on average, the chart above still holds close to today’s average.

Average LPGA TOUR Club Head Speeds

2009_LPGA_Championship_-_Sarah_Lee_(2)

The LPGA does not keep data on swing speed. However, the average swing speed with the driver hovers around 95 mph, per TrackMan. As we noticed in the statistics above for the PGA TOUR, there is somewhat of a correlation between swing speed and driver distance, but not necessarily always.

The current top drivers on the LPGA Tour shake out as follows:

Driving Distance Averages from LPGATour.com

Swing Speed Estimates Via TrackMan

Data compiled through 7/9/23

As noted previously, TrackMan is a go-to source for swing and club data for many coaches and players. I use data from TrackMan with my students all the time. For my female students, as well as slower-swinging male students, one of my go-to charts is TrackMan’s 2017 LPGA TOUR Data Points .

Compiled data from TrackMan

As noted previously, TrackMan notes that these AVERAGE stats from 2017 have mostly stayed the same over the last six years. The top players on the LPGA TOUR have gotten faster and carry the ball longer, but, on average, the chart above still holds close to today’s average.

In 2012, Ryan Winther set the world record for swing speed at 167 mph, and that swing produced a ball speed of 225 mph.

Recent long-drive phenom, Kyle Berkshire, has come close to Winther’s record, recording a swing speed of 160. Berkshire does however have the highest ball speed ever recorded at 236.8 mph… Say What?!?

More from Golf Span: The 10 Best Drivers for Slow Swing Speed

Swing speed and distance have become one of the most talked about topics in the game over recent years. It seems that everyone in golf has a need for speed! There is no denying that swing speed is a hot topic in golf.

Golfers are always looking for tips and tricks to improve their swing speed. I will break down my tips for you in two different ways. The first is the more traditional ways we, as instructors and coaches, point students toward when working on improving their swing speed.

The second will come from my friend, Michael Romatowski, founder and creator of the revolutionary Mach 3 Golf Speed Training System. Mike’s system is really helping 1,000’s of golfers get faster with their swing.

Some of the more traditional tips for golfers to help them increase their swing speed include the following:

  • Train Your Body to Get Faster-  If you can increase your flexibility and mobility, reaching faster swing speeds will be more realistic. How a golfer moves their body, in terms of how much they can rotate their hips and upper torso, will play a big part in their production of swing speed. Getting yourself into the habit of stretching your body regularly will help your ability to swing faster.
  • Equipment can make a difference- Having the right equipment for you can make a big difference in your ability to swing faster. Some of the critical things you need to consider in terms of equipment include:
  • The overall weight of the club-  The lighter the club, the faster you can swing it. That is straight-up science, folks.
  • The type of shaft you use-  The shaft matters in golf. From the length, to the flex, and where the kick-point is, all of these things equate to your ability to swing at your maximum speed.
  • The head of the club-  Golf equipment technology has made massive gains over the last two decades. The clubheads on today’s drivers can offer maximum forgiveness and create a “trampoline effect” with the ball coming off the face. Test different drivers, and you may be surprised at what gains you can make by simply having the right club.

I have recently become a massive fan of a speed training program called the Mack 3 Golf Speed Training System . It was developed by Michael Romatowski. Mike is a multi-certified personal trainer, golf fitness expert, and post-rehab exercise specialist. I have spent a lot of time talking with Mike recently; he was a recent guest on my Quite Please Golf Podcast. You can listen to that episode here.

Mach 3 is a year-round speed training protocol that has produced an average gain in clubhead speed for program participants of 11.5 miles per hour. The tools used in Mach 3 are dynamic and unique, allowing golfers to experience the sensation of “Speed Out in Front,” which is the hallmark of Mach 3.

Some of the critical points of Mach 3 that I like include:

  • It’s Open To All –  The Mach 3 program is for golfers of all ages, genders, and playing abilities.
  • It’s Fun & Safe –  Workouts are fun, non-exhausting, safe, and athletic in nature.
  • It’s Accessible to All –  Speed training workouts can be held indoors or outdoors.
  • It’s Optimized –  Train for golf without “bulking up” and using natural golf body motions.

The overarching theme of Mach 3 is the “Speed out in front” concept. “Speed out in front” means that a golfer needs to become much more target-oriented when swinging. Anything after impact and up to the end of your swing is “out in front.”

Because the golf swing is such a fast movement, taking roughly only 1.25 seconds, it is essential to think in your mind to be a few steps ahead. Golfers often think of the ball and impact with the ball as the finish line when, in reality, it is only the mid-way point. If you focus on the ball as the ultimate goal, you will move slower into it at impact.

Mach 3 trains golfers to think of the finish line of the swing as being the top of your finish. You become hyper-focused on the target, the finish of the swing, and getting all of your energy, momentum, and speed “out in front” and past the point where the ball is at impact…well past it.

Mach 3 will help any and all golfers that give this concept a try. As mentioned earlier, program participants’ average gain in clubhead speed is around 11.5 miles per hour. That is significant!

If you’re a golfer seeking to improve your game, understanding the insights a golf swing speed chart can provide is invaluable. These charts break down swing speeds by various factors such as age, gender, and skill level, offering a wealth of data that helps golfers understand where they stand. My extensive experience as a golf coach has shown me that these statistics are crucial for those aiming to improve their performance. Surprisingly, many golfers discover they don’t swing as fast or hit as far as they initially thought.

The charts reveal that factors like age, gender, and skill level profoundly impact your swing speed and, subsequently, your driving distance. However, it’s important to note that age doesn’t necessarily have to slow you down. Many golfers in the 50 – 59 and 60+ age brackets can still generate impressive swing speeds, particularly if they maintain good flexibility and employ proper swing mechanics.

To boost your swing speed, you can rely on tried-and-true methods and cutting-edge techniques. On the traditional side, improving your body’s flexibility and selecting the right equipment can make a significant difference. For instance, lighter clubs and the right shaft type can notably increase your swing speed. On the innovative front, training systems like the Mach 3 Golf Speed Training System have helped thousands of golfers achieve faster swings by focusing on functional training tailored to golf performance.

To wrap up, a golf swing speed chart is an essential tool for anyone serious about upgrading their golf game. Combining this data with top tips for improving your swing speed can set you on the path to becoming a more formidable golfer. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to fine-tune your skills, a strategic approach backed by sound data can help you reach new heights in your golf career. Stay tuned for the latest updates and trends in golf statistics and training techniques.

More from me on Golf Span: How to Increase Swing Speed: 10 Tips

brendon elliott pga professional profile author

Brendon Elliott

Brendon is Class A PGA Professional and founded Little Linksters, LLC, and its nonprofit arm, the Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development. He won 25+ prestigious industry honors, including the 2017 PGA National Youth Player Development Award. He graduated from the PGA of America Management Program and has a handicap index of 7.8.

He has played golf for over 40 years and currently plays twice a month at the Eagle Dunes Golf Club near Sorrento, Florida. He loves Srixon clubs and plays a ZX5 driver with Z 585 irons. He's written over 60 articles on GolfSpan and specializes in sharing tips to improve your golf game. You can connect with Brendon at  LinkedIn , X , IG , FB , his website , or [email protected] .

  • Best score : 69
  • Favorite driver : Srixon ZX5
  • Favorite ball : Srixon Z Star
  • Favorite food at the turn : Turkey and cheese on white
  • Brendon Elliott https://www.golfspan.com/author/brendon-elliott Bombs Away: The Longest Drives in Golf History
  • Brendon Elliott https://www.golfspan.com/author/brendon-elliott 10 Longest Drives in PGA Tour History
  • Brendon Elliott https://www.golfspan.com/author/brendon-elliott Are Refurbished Golf Balls Any Good?
  • Brendon Elliott https://www.golfspan.com/author/brendon-elliott Masters Ticket Prices in 2024: What I Pay as a PGA Pro

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average tour carry distance

How Far Do PGA Tour Pros Hit The Ball?

Whether you like it or not, distance is always talked about. But how far do PGA Tour pros hit the ball? Let's find out

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Bryson DeChambeau at the top of his backswing

Distance is a hotly debated subject and not just in the clubhouse at your local municipal. So much so, earlier this year, the United States Golf Association (USGA) and R&A sent an official notice to equipment manufacturers, detailing new areas of interest in the distance debate.

The notice did not include any official changes to the Rules of Golf but it did give a glimpse into the future and just how they intend to stop the ever increasing trend of further drives and lengthening of golf courses.

As the general consensus is that PGA Tour pros hit the ball too far, do you know how far they actually hit it? Well, let's take a look.

The PGA Tour collates this information under the Driving Distance category. The average number of yards per measured drive is recorded on two holes per round. The PGA Tour accounts for possible variance, such as elevation and wind, and take care to counteract this effect in the chosen holes. The drives are measured at the point in which the ball come to rest regardless of whether it is in the fairway or not.

Cameron Champ leads the 2022 Driving Distance category with a whopping average of 326.1 yards. The American maintains a rather comfortable lead with Matt Wolff some 5.4 yards behind - averaging 320.7 yards off the tee.

The 5.4 yard difference between Champ and Wolff separates Wolff and Luke List; who is twelfth in the Driving Distance category - averaging 315.4. 

The PGA Tour average driving distance is 298.4 yards; which is enough to rank 106th in the category. Notable players that fall beneath Tour average are Matt Fitzpatrick, who came agonisingly close to his first Major at the PGA Championship, Russell Henley, Billy Horschel, Abraham Ancer and Daniel Berger.

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What Is The Longest Drive Ever Hit On The PGA Tour?

Davis Love III hits driver in 2004

Unfortunately, this isn't as easy to answer as you might think.

The PGA Tour introduced ShotLink in a limited capacity in 2000. Since 2003, they have used the laser-based system to gain precise measurements on every hole - something which was not possible before.

Prior to 2003 and the expanded use of ShotLink, Tiger Woods hit a 498-yard drive on the 18th hole at the Plantation Course at Kapalua during the 2002 Mercedes Championship. Sadly for Woods, this is classed as an 'unofficial record.'

David Love III takes the spoils in the post-2003 era having driven one 476-yards on the exact same hole as Woods during the 2004 edition of the Mercedes Championship. Those familiar with the event will be aware of the cambering fairway that can be used to the players advantage. 

Perhaps the most impressive drive recorded was by Jeff Sluman, who, at 5 foot 8 inches tall, put one out there 473-yards at the PGA West course during the 2003 Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Pound for pound, that is an extremely long drive. 

Driving Distance Analysis Through The Years

  • The 2022 leading average driving distance is the longest in the last ten years
  • The 2022 tour average driving distance is the longest in the last ten years 
  • The difference between the longest and tour average was the biggest in 2015 (28 yards)
  • The difference between the longest and tour average was the second biggest in 2022 (so far - 27.7 yards)
  • The average driving distance has increased 11.2 yards in the last ten years

Hank Kuehne hits a driver

Driving Distance Leaders Through The Years

In 2003, Hank Kuehne averaged a staggering 321.4 yards off the tee. Only Bryson DeChambeau (2020 & 2021) has bettered that total across a full PGA Tour season.

James joined Golf Monthly having previously written for other digital outlets. He is obsessed with all areas of the game – from tournament golf, to history, equipment, technique and travel. He is also an avid collector of memorabilia; with items from the likes of Bobby Jones, Tiger Woods, Francis Ouimet, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Adam Scott and Ernie Els. As well as writing for Golf Monthly, James’ golfing highlight is fist bumping Phil Mickelson on his way to winning the Open Championship at Muirfield in 2013. James grew up on the east coast of England and is the third generation of his golfing family. He now resides in Leeds and is a member of Cobble Hall Golf Club with a handicap index of 1.7. His favourite films are The Legend of Bagger Vance and Tin Cup.

Max Homa takes to the media before the PGA Championship at Valhalla

The American doesn’t sense the ongoing fractures at the top of the men’s game are causing irreparable harm

By Mike Hall Published 14 May 24

Fans watching the action at Valhalla Golf Club before the 2024 PGA Championship

Valhalla Golf Club in Kentucky has a pretty strict policy on what fans can and cannot bring with them to the second men's Major championship of the season this week...

By Jonny Leighfield Published 14 May 24

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average tour carry distance

2024 PGA Championship one and done picks, field, strategy, sleepers: Golf predictions, betting advice

T he top golfers in the world will take on Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky when the 2024 PGA Championship tees off Thursday. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler headlines the 2024 PGA Championship field. Scheffler enters as the 3-1 betting favorite in the latest 2024 PGA Championship odds and is on one of the most successful runs in the history of professional golf. He has finished no worse than 17th in his 10 starts in 2024, and has eight sixth-or-better finishes among those. His wins in 2024 include the Masters, Players Championship, Arnold Palmer Invitational, and RBC Heritage. Should Scheffler be a target in 2024 PGA Championship one and done pools this week?

Other contenders for your PGA one and done picks include Brooks Koepka (10-1), Xander Schauffele (12-1), Ludvig Aberg (12-1), and Jon Rahm (14-1). With a total 2024 PGA Championship purse of $17.5 million and a winner's share of $3.15 million on the line, it is imperative that you nail your PGA one and done picks this week for the PGA Championship. Before locking in your 2024 PGA Championship one and done picks, you need to see what SportsLine DFS pro and PGA expert Mike McClure has to say . 

The One and Done format is growing in popularity. It has several noticeable similarities to NFL Survivor pools, with the main difference being entries are not eliminated with a bad week. Players pick one golfer per week and earn points based on their selected golfer's prize money for that tournament. Golfers can only be used once per season, and the point format makes nailing majors, signature events, and big money tournaments critical.

McClure is a DFS legend with over $2 million in career winnings, and he's been red-hot on his PGA picks dating back to the PGA Tour restart in June of 2020. McClure uses his proprietary simulation model to analyze the field and crush his golf picks.

McClure has been on fire with his One and Done picks in 2024. At The American Express he backed Justin Thomas, who finished in third place and took home $635,600. At the Genesis Invitational, McClure tabbed Patrick Cantlay, who finished in fourth place at the signature event, as his top OAD pick. At the Cognizant Classic, McClure's top one and done pick, Min Woo Lee, finished in a tie for second place. Finally, at the Arnold Palmer Invitation, another signature event, McClure recommended using Scottie Scheffler and Will Zalatoris. The Result: Scheffler won the event by five strokes, and Zalatoris finished in fourth place.

His hot steak continued at the Players Championship, where McClure again recommended using Scheffler (if was still available) and Xander Schauffele. Both players were in contention until the end, with Scheffler coming out with the win and Schauffele finishing in second place! Then, at the Valspar Championship, McClure recommended using Cameron Young, who finished in second place, in OAD pools.

More recently, at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, McClure recommended using 50-1 longshot Alex Noren in One and Done pools. Noren would go on to be in contention until the end, before finishing in third place, two strokes off the lead.

Now, McClure has dialed in on the PGA Championship golf tournament and just locked in his one and done picks and PGA predictions. They are a must-see for any player looking for an edge in their One and Done pool. You can only see McClure's PGA Championship 2024 one and done picks at SportsLine .

Top 2024 PGA Championship One and Done picks

One of McClure's top One and Done picks this week for the PGA Championship is Collin Morikawa. The two-time major champion is one of the best ball strikers in the world, and has a long track record of success in majors and playing against elite fields. This year he has finished T19 or better in all but one of the PGA Tour's signature events and notched a T3 at The Masters.

Morikawa has battled some inconsistencies over the last 18 months, but remains a threat to win any tournament he enters. Heading into the PGA Championship he ranks 29th on the PGA Tour in strokes gained off-the-tee (0.369), 38th in strokes gained tee-to-green (0.558), and 43rd in strokes gained around the green (0.229). Morikawa has a win and a T8 in four career PGA Championship starts.  You can see who else to back at SportsLine .

How to make PGA Championship 2024 One and Done picks

McClure is also targeting another golfer for his 2024 PGA Championship one and done picks who has a long track record of success against elite competition. This multiple time PGA Tour winner has the ability to win any tournament he enters, and is one of the most talented golfers in this field. You can find out who it is, and check out all of McClure's PGA Championship one and done picks at SportsLine .

Who wins the the PGA Championship 2024, and which golfers should you target for your one and done picks this week at Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club? Visit SportsLine now to get Mike McClure's PGA Championship 2024 one and done picks, all from the DFS pro who nailed five winners in 2024 , and find out.

May 17, 2019; Bethpage, NY, USA; Bubba Watson plays his shot from the sixth tee during the second round of the PGA Championship golf tournament at Bethpage State Park - Black Course.

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2024 pga championship: average driving distance of each golfer in the field, share this article, off the tee at the pga championship.

average tour carry distance

(USA TODAY)

The second major of the year tees off at Valhalla in Louisville, Kentucky, where 156 golfers will compete for the Wanamaker Trophy. Unlike other majors, no qualifiers or amateurs are in the field for the PGA Championship, which begins on Thursday.

As always, plenty of eyes will be on Tiger Woods, while much of the focus will be on Scottie Scheffler’s dominance (after time off for the birth of his baby boy), Rory’s hot hand, Brooks Koepka’s title defense, and the always exciting “unknowns.”

The course is over 7,600 yards, so distance off the tee (with accuracy, of course) will be viyal for any serious run up the leaderbord.

With that in mind, here’s the average driving distance (if available) for each golfer in the field…

Ludvig Aberg

average tour carry distance

(Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 307.7

Byeong Hun An

average tour carry distance

(Raymond Carlin III-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 313.5

average tour carry distance

(Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 281

Josh Bevell

average tour carry distance

(Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: N/A

Christiaan Bezuidenhout

average tour carry distance

(Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 286.8

Akshay Bhatia

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 298

Alexander Bjork

average tour carry distance

(Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 276.4

average tour carry distance

(Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 273.8

Michael Block

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 266

Evan Bowser

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)

Avg. driving distance: 

Keegan Bradley

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 299.8

Dean Burmester

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 313.4 (per LIV Golf)

average tour carry distance

(Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 303.9

Patrick Cantlay

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 297.9

Wyndham Clark

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 313.8

average tour carry distance

(Adam Cairns-USA TODAY Network)

Avg. driving distance: 297.1

Preston Cole

average tour carry distance

Tyler Collet

average tour carry distance

(Clare Grant-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 289.8

Corey Conners

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 298.8

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 276

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 303

Bryson DeChambeau

average tour carry distance

(Edgar Su/Reuters via USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 318.9 (per LIV Golf)

Thomas Detry

average tour carry distance

(Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 301.4

Matt Dobyns

average tour carry distance

(John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 303.8

Luke Donald

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 278.1

Jason Dufner

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 270

Nick Dunlap

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 303.6

Austin Eckroat

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 297.2

Harris English

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 299.1

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 308.1

Matt Fitzpatrick

average tour carry distance

(Michael Madrid-USA TODAY Network)

Tommy Fleetwood

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 296.3

Rickie Fowler

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 296.8

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 307.6

Brice Garnett

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 289.6

average tour carry distance

(Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 288.3

Lucas Glover

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 287.1

Talor Gooch

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 296 (per LIV Golf)

Ben Griffin

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 294.2

Emiliano Grillo

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 288.9

Larkin Gross

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Avg. driving distance: 285.8

Adam Hadwin

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 296.6

Brian Harman

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 289.4

Padraig Harrington

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Avg. driving distance: 298.3

Tyrrell Hatton

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 303.7 (per LIV Golf)

Russell Henley

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 287.3

Lucas Herbert

average tour carry distance

Ryo Hisatsune

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 293.3

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 294.8

Charley Hoffman

average tour carry distance

(Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 300.9

average tour carry distance

(Michael Madrid-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 292.8

Nicolai Hojgaard

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 307.8

Rasmus Hojgaard

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 305.7

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 300.6

Billy Horschel

average tour carry distance

Beau Hossler

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 296.9

Viktor Hovland

average tour carry distance

(Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 300.2

Mark Hubbard

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 291.1

Mackenzie Hughes

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 296.4

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 292.9

Stephan Jaeger

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 310.2

Dustin Johnson

average tour carry distance

(Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 307.7 (per LIV Golf)

Jared Jones

average tour carry distance

Takumi Kanaya

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 276.3

Martin Kaymer

average tour carry distance

(Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 286.3 (per LIV Golf)

Jeff Kellen

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 293.5

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 291.9

average tour carry distance

Kurt Kitayama

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 305.2

average tour carry distance

(Andrew Dieb-USA TODAY Sports)

Kazuma Kobori

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)

Avg. driving distance: 280

Brooks Koepka

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 304.7 (per LIV Golf)

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 285.2

Thriston Lawrence

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 307.1 (per DP World Tour)

Kyoung-Hoon Lee

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 300

Min Woo Lee

average tour carry distance

(Katie Goodale-USA TODAY Network)

Avg. driving distance: 311.3

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 299.3

Shane Lowry

average tour carry distance

Robert MacIntyre

average tour carry distance

(Adam Cairns-USA TODAY Sports)

Peter Malnati

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)

Avg. driving distance: 293.7

Hideki Matsuyama

average tour carry distance

(Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports)

Denny McCarthy

average tour carry distance

Rory McIlroy

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 316.8

Maverick McNealy

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 302.6

Kyle Mendoza

average tour carry distance

(Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports)

Adrian Meronk

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 305.6 (per LIV Golf)

Shaun Micheel

average tour carry distance

Phil Mickelson

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 298 (per LIV Golf)

Keith Mitchell

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 307.1

Francesco Molinari

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 288.4

Taylor Montgomery

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 292.7

Taylor Moore

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 302.2

Collin Morikawa

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 291.2

Jesse Mueller

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 279.4

Grayson Murray

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 303.2

Keita Nakajima

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 301.6

Joaquin Niemann

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 317.4 (per LIV Golf)

average tour carry distance

Vincent Norrman

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 309.3

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)

Andy Ogletree

average tour carry distance

(Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 296.9 (per LIV Golf)

Thorbjorn Olesen

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 296

Adrian Otaegui

average tour carry distance

Matthieu Pavon

average tour carry distance

Taylor Pendrith

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 311.1

Victor Perez

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 299.2

Tracy Phillips

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Ben Polland

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 288

J.T. Poston

average tour carry distance

(Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 313 (per LIV Golf)

Andrew Putnam

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 282.5

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 312.9 (per LIV Golf)

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 291.3

Patrick Reed

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 298.3 (per LIV Golf)

Patrick Rodgers

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 306

Justin Rose

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 295.3

Xander Schauffele

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 304.6

Scottie Scheffler

average tour carry distance

Adam Schenk

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 301

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 304

Braden Shattuck

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 305.1

Cameron Smith

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 295.4

Jordan Smith

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 297.4

Sebastian Soderberg

average tour carry distance

(Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 292.4

John Somers

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Avg. driving distance: 290

Josh Speight

average tour carry distance

(Eric Sucar-USA TODAY Sports)

Avg. driving distance: 298.5

Jordan Spieth

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 304.2

Sepp Straka

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 291

Adam Svensson

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 297.8

Jesper Svensson

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 321.7

Andy Svoboda

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Nick Taylor

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 289.9

Sahith Theegala

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 303.4

Justin Thomas

average tour carry distance

Brendon Todd

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 277.6

Alejandro Tosti

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 311.9

Sami Valimaki

average tour carry distance

Erik van Rooyen

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 300.5

Ryan van Velzen

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Camilo Villegas

average tour carry distance

Jimmy Walker

average tour carry distance

Matt Wallace

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 298.1

Jeremy Wells

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 295.5

average tour carry distance

(Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)

Avg. driving distance: 309.5

Gary Woodland

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 310

Tiger Woods

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 291.8

Wyatt Worthington II

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 280.4

Cameron Young

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 303.7

Will Zalatoris

average tour carry distance

Chris Gotterup

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 312.6

average tour carry distance

Avg. driving distance: 300.7

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Power Rankings: PGA Championship

Power Rankings

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Not unlike how many of the horses arrive for the annual Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs some 15 miles to its west, Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, is poised to host numerous thoroughbreds in top form for the 106th running of the PGA Championship.

A review of the course and other information is below the ranking of those projected to contend.

It’d be a curious opinion to want the sport’s top talents to descend at the second major of 2024 in form other than the current, so it’s a timely bonus that Valhalla will give all 156 entrants a terrific opportunity to stretch and showcase what they got.

This is the fourth edition of the PGA Championship on the Jack Nicklaus design. After testing as a par 72 in 1996 and 2000, it’s been a par 71 since Rory McIlroy prevailed in 2014. The field’s average that week was a modest 71.539, but that’s when the tournament was contested in August.

It’s late enough in the growing season this year for Valhalla to present its fully formed self, but it does so now capable of extending to 7,609 yards. That’s 151 yards longer than a decade ago, but the expectation is that it will again provide a fair and consistently strong exam. While visually striking in places, Valhalla’s setup as a proper stage is the narrative. The prepared will be rewarded on an exceptionally balanced course.

Because it’s a Nicklaus design, long hitters will be licking their chops off tees. With five par 4s tipping at 484 yards or longer piggybacking three par 5s, the driver will be a busy stick. Yet, in 2014, Valhalla surrendered just 278 yards on average in distance of all drives. That was 11th-lowest of all courses measured that season and respectful of the fact that greens average only 5,000 square feet. The formula favors course management over all alternatives. This is major, after all.

But make no mistake, confident drivers will feast. McIlroy prevailed in 2014 at 16-under 268 and was among five with four rounds in the 60s. He led the field in distance of all drives, total driving, Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee and par-4 scoring.

McIlroy is among the 34 in this week’s field who competed here 10 years ago. The then-new, heat-tolerant T-1 bentgrass on the greens held its own in the muggy conditions at the time. It was a big deal because it was the first time the strain hosted a major. The darker-green surface is ready to touch 13 feet on the Stimpmeter this week; that is, if it wasn’t subject to persistent rain immediately in advance of and during the tournament.

There’s at least a slight risk of precipitation every day, although Thursday and Sunday are the early clubhouse leaders for cooperative conditions. Wind won’t be a significant factor at any time, so it’ll simply be a matter of dodging lightning and cloudbursts. Daytime highs might not hit 80 degrees until Saturday. Even with a warmup for the finale, it won’t be sweltering. If it’s soft, fairways will play wider but a blend of bluegrass and fescue trimmed to four inches will grab wayward strikes on either side.

In addition to a lifetime exemption into the tournament, the winner of the Wanamaker trophy will receive exemptions into the next five editions of each of the other three majors. He’ll also secure spots in the last two Signature Events of 2024 and the 2025 editions of The Sentry and THE PLAYERS Championship. His PGA TOUR membership exemption also will extend to the maximum five seasons through 2029.

ROB BOLTON’S SCHEDULE

  • MONDAY : Power Rankings
  • TUESDAY *: Sleepers
  • WEDNESDAY : Golfbet Insider
  • FRIDAY : Medical Extensions
  • SUNDAY : Points and Payouts; Qualifiers; Reshuffle

*Rob is a member of the panel for PGATOUR.COM’s Expert Picks for PGA TOUR Fantasy Golf, which also publishes on Tuesday.

Rob Bolton is a Golfbet columnist for the PGA TOUR. The Chicagoland native has been playing fantasy golf since 1994, so he was just waiting for the Internet to catch up with him. Follow Rob Bolton on Twitter .

COMMENTS

  1. REVEALED: PGA Tour average CARRY DISTANCES

    PGA TOUR AVERAGE CARRY DISTANCES 2021. DRIVER - 275 YARDS. 3 WOOD - 243 YARDS. 5 WOOD - 230 YARDS. HYBRID - 225 YARDS. 3 IRON - 212 YARDS. 4 IRON - 203 YARDS. 5 IRON - 194 YARDS. 6 IRON - 183 YARDS.

  2. How Far PGA Tour Players Carry Their Drives

    That will reduce his average driving distance to 311.3 yards, or a 4.5% hit. McIlroy's average carry distance for the same season is 307.4 yards and 4.5% of that is 13.8 yards. That means his carry distance could come down to around 293.6 yards after the rollback. How Far PGA Tour Players Carry Their Driver. Club speed (mph): 113

  3. How Far PGA Tour Players Hit Every Club In The Bag

    The average carry distance for a PGA Tour pro with a driver in hand during 2023 was 282 yards. ... When looking at the 7-iron, the total carry distance on the PGA Tour was 176 yards thanks to 92mph club speed and 123mph ball speed. PGA Tour players struck their shortest club - the pitching wedge - around 142 yards (carry) in 2023, according to ...

  4. How Far Do Pro Golfers Hit Each Club? A 2022 Guide

    PGA Tour players hit their driver a 'total' of 296.6 yards on average with a 'carry' distance of 284.3 yards according to official 2022 Shotlink data. The longest player hits it 320 yards on average and the longest recorded drive in 2022 is 460 yards. On the LPGA Tour the top pros hit their driver an average of 257.7 yards.

  5. Golf Club Distances w/ Chart

    2020 PGA Tour Players Average Club Head Speed vs Average Carry Distance, Data Source: pgatour.com. Assuming all other things are equal, more swing speed means more energy that can be transferred from the club to the golf ball, resulting in higher ball speed. Higher ball speed means the ball will travel a further distance.

  6. TrackMan PGA Tour Averages Stats

    For the tour pro stats - mainly carry distance, launch angle and spin rate for the driver, you have the averages, could you supply the max and min (filtered for outliers)? I am going to run an experiment with Trackman at my golf academy and need a starting range for each item. ... I'm about a half club off of PGA Tour average distance wise ...

  7. Carry Distance vs. Swing Speed Chart

    All remaining carry distance data (60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130 and 140) was calculated based on the average PGA Tour carry distances. The LPGA Tour Trackman data didn't have numbers listed for a hybrid or 3-iron. Rather they listed a 7-wood carry distance of 174 yards.

  8. 2024 PGA Tour

    Wondering who leads the PGA Tour in drive distance, consecutive cuts, scoring average, or putts per hole? CBS Sports has all of those statistics and more for the PGA Tour.

  9. PGA Tour average carry distances

    See how your carry numbers compare to the world's best on the PGA Tour in the table below, starting with the driver and moving down to the pitching wedge. PGA TOUR AVERAGE CARRY DISTANCES 2021. DRIVER - 275 YARDS. 3 WOOD - 243 YARDS. 5 WOOD - 230 YARDS. HYBRID - 225 YARDS. 3 IRON - 212 YARDS. 4 IRON - 203 YARDS. 5 IRON - 194 YARDS

  10. What is Carry?

    Carry is the distance the ball travels through the air. ... Using the club speed definition, we would expect the average male amateur to hit their driver as far as the average LPGA Tour player. However, the actual difference is more than 20 yards. Ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate must be optimized to reach a golfer's potential distance

  11. Swing Speed and Distance Chart for Every Club

    Tour Player Swing Speed and Distance Chart. Here are the average swing speeds of PGA Tour and LPGA Tour players with each full-swing club, along with their average carry distances, in yards, for each club. This data comes directly from Trackman, which captures dozens of metrics from countless professional and amateur golfers every day.

  12. How Far Should You Hit Your Golf Clubs?

    The chart is based off the PGA Tour average carry distances that were reported by Trackman (see the first chart in the top of the article), the average total driving distance from the PGATour.com website (about 289 yards), and the average PGA Tour swing speed (about 112 mph).

  13. Golf Carry Distances

    So if the total distance is 150 yards and you are hitting into a 10 m.p.h wind, then adjust by 10% or 15 yards, so assume you need to hit 165 yards. On the other hand if the wind swings around on the same hole so that it is behind you, then you would only need to use a 135 yard shot.

  14. Golf Club Distance Charts By Age, Gender And Skill Level

    A 7 iron optimal smash factor is 1.33. That is the PGA Tour average. Remember for the driver it is 1.50. The ball speed off the 7 iron is determined by the swing speed and smash factor. As the clubs get shorter, the ideal smash factor actually changes. What distance will you get from a 7 iron at every speed of swing?

  15. PGA Tour Trackman Averages: Analyzing Player Performance And Improving

    Average Carry Distance by Club. Carry distance is the distance the golf ball travels through the air before it touches the ground. Trackman data provides fascinating insights into the average carry distances achieved by PGA Tour players with different clubs. For instance, with their drivers, these professionals can carry the ball over 280 yards ...

  16. Golf Stat and Records

    PGA TOUR Stats

  17. How Far LPGA Tour Players Hit Every Club In The Bag

    A 4-iron is Charley Hull's favourite club, and while the LPGA Tour average for that club was 175 yards, the English woman is likely to send it way past that number with her equivalent. There is minimal difference in the carry distance between a hybrid at 178 yards and 4-iron at 175 yards, but then the data shows consistent gapping of between 10 ...

  18. What Is the Average Distance With Each Golf Club?

    The faster your swing speed, the greater the distance. According to TrackMan, the average PGA Tour player has a driver club speed of 113 MPH, resulting in a 275 yard carry.Meanwhile, LPGA Tour players average 94 MPH with driver, and carry the ball 218 yards.

  19. Breaking down the big-hitting group of DeChambeau, Champ and ...

    His average carry distance of 314.1 yards is 9.5 yards longer than the No. 2 player in that statistic, Ryan Brehm. ... the TOUR's average clubhead speed was 114 mph last season and the average ...

  20. Golf Swing Speed Chart: Averages By Age, Skill, and More

    PGA TOUR Average Club Head Speeds and Carry Distance Per Club; Average LPGA TOUR Club Head Speeds and Distances; LPGA TOUR Average Club Head Speeds and Carry Distance Per Club; ... LPGA TOUR Average Clubhead Speed and Carry Distance Per Club. Club: Clubhead Speed (mph) Carry Distance (yards) Driver: 94: 218: 3 Wood: 90: 195: 5 Wood: 88: 185: 7 ...

  21. Average Driving Distance

    Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give Belmont, MI. Jun 20. KPMG Women's PGA Championship Sammamish, WA

  22. The PGA Tour's average driving distance has skyrocketed since 1980

    In 1997, he was the first golfer ever to average more than 300 yards per drive — beating out a 22-year-old Tiger Woods, who finished with 294.8. ... Daly would last lead the Tour in distance ...

  23. How Far Is A Good Drive In Golf (The Honest Truth)

    Professional golfers have an average swing speed of about 114 mph. This equates to about 295 yards of distance with the driver. Cameron Champ is the longest driver on the tour right now for the ...

  24. How Far Do PGA Tour Pros Hit The Ball?

    The PGA Tour accounts for possible variance, such as elevation and wind, and take care to counteract this effect in the chosen holes. The drives are measured at the point in which the ball come to rest regardless of whether it is in the fairway or not. Cameron Champ leads the 2022 Driving Distance category with a whopping average of 326.1 yards.

  25. 2024 PGA Championship one and done picks, field, strategy ...

    Heading into the PGA Championship he ranks 29th on the PGA Tour in strokes gained off-the-tee (0.369), 38th in strokes gained tee-to-green (0.558), and 43rd in strokes gained around the green (0.229).

  26. PGA Championship: Average driving distance of each golfer in the field

    The course is over 7,600 yards, so distance off the tee (with accuracy, of course) will be viyal for any serious run up the leaderbord. With that in mind, here's the average driving distance (if available) for each golfer in the field…. Ludvig Aberg. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) Avg. driving distance: 307.7. Byeong Hun An.

  27. Power Rankings: PGA Championship

    Yet, in 2014, Valhalla surrendered just 278 yards on average in distance of all drives. That was 11th-lowest of all courses measured that season and respectful of the fact that greens average only ...