NCG’s Golf Glossary: The Ferret and Golden Ferret in Golf

Welcome to NCG’s Golf Glossary, where the enigmatic jargon of golf is demystified. Today, we delve into two uniquely intriguing terms that may not be immediately familiar to every golfer: ‘The Ferret’ and ‘The Golden Ferret’.

Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to brush up on your terminology or a newcomer keen to understand the finer nuances of the game, this guide will shed light on these peculiar expressions.

As with many golf terms, these phrases have captivating histories and rich tales that highlight the game’s blend of tradition, challenge, and charm. Read on to explore the story and significance of The Ferret and Golden Ferret in the world of golf.

The Ferret in Golf

‘The Ferret’ is a whimsical term that many casual golfers might not immediately recognize, yet it holds a special place in golfing folklore.

Many golfers will have achieved a ‘ferret’ during their playing careers, with the term describing the ball being holed out from off the green.

There are a couple of things that have to be right, though, for it to count as a ferret!

• The ball must originate from off the green
• A putter cannot be used
• The ball goes in the hole for par or better

The origins of the term are somewhat debated, but the common belief is that it’s derived from the way ferrets dive into holes. For any golfer, executing a ferret can be a moment of immense pride.

You can achieve a ferret from any distance, whether it is a couple of feet off the green, or whether you have holed out from 100 yards away!

The Golden Ferret

Taking it up a notch from the ferret is its more illustrious cousin: ‘The Golden Ferret’. This term is reserved for those truly magical moments when a golfer holes the ball directly from a bunker.

The rarity of this accomplishment is what earns it the ‘golden’ moniker. Therefore, to not only escape the bunker but to hole the ball directly from it is nothing short of golfing brilliance. It’s these unexpected moments of triumph that make golf so captivating, turning potentially challenging situations into unforgettable memories.

The Origins

The phrase is actually a joining of two separate golfing terms.

A ’ferret’ means to hole out from off the green for par or better, although you can’t use a putter to qualify for this.

Meanwhile, a ’golden sandy’ means holing out from a greenside bunker, and the word ferret has simply replaced the ending. And a golden ferret may be a fortuitous happy ending after a disaster occurred one shot previously.

’Nitby’, I was reliably informed by a Swedish golf journalist whom I played with on a trip, stands for ’Not in the bunker yet’. That occurs when you’re faced with one of those tricky shots from a dodgy lie, with a bunker right in front of you. After you’ve scuffed the ball into the bunker, you’ll be hoping to be rescued by a golden ferret.

In Conclusion

Both The Ferret and The Golden Ferret stand as testaments to golf’s rich tapestry of terminologies and traditions. These terms encapsulate the essence of the game: a blend of challenge, unpredictability, and the thrill of accomplishment.

Whether you’ve been fortunate enough to experience these moments firsthand or you simply appreciate the tales of those who have, there’s no denying that these terms add a touch of enchantment to the already fascinating world of golf.

So, the next time you find your ball nestled in the sands of a bunker, take a moment to channel the spirit of The Ferret, and who knows? You might just create a story worth telling.

NCG’s Golf Glossary: Ferret and Golden Ferret FAQ

What is the main difference between The Ferret and The Golden Ferret?

The primary difference is that ‘The Golden Ferret’ refers to holing the ball directly from a bunker, while ‘The Ferret’ occurs when you hole out from off the green (as long as you don’t use your putter!)

How common is it for golfers to achieve a Ferret or Golden Ferret?

Achieving a Ferret, while impressive, is more common than the Golden Ferret. Given the specificity and difficulty associated with achieving a hole-out from a bunker, the Golden Ferret is a much rarer feat.

Why are these terms named after ferrets?

The term ‘ferret’ in this context is believed to be derived from the way ferrets dive into holes, mirroring the action of the golf ball diving into the cup from a bunker. The exact origin of the term remains a topic of debate among golf historians.

I’ve heard other unique golf terms. Are there more like The Ferret and Golden Ferret?

Absolutely! Golf is rich with unique terminologies that celebrate the game’s history, challenges, and the occasional quirky moment. From “albatross” to “mulligan”, there’s a lot to discover in the lexicon of golf.

Can I use these terms during casual play or are they reserved for professional games?

You can absolutely use these terms during casual play. Part of the fun of golf is embracing its traditions and lingo, whether you’re playing a friendly round at your local course or watching the pros on television.

What’s the best way to improve my chances of achieving a Ferret?

Practice makes perfect! Working on your bunker shots, understanding the sand’s texture, and mastering the art of controlling ball spin will improve your chances. But remember, golf is as much about enjoying the journey as it is about the destination. Celebrate every good shot, and take the less successful ones in stride.

Have you ever achieved a ‘ferret’ or ‘golden ferret’ in your golfing life? How did it make you feel? Let us know with a post on X, formerly Twitter!