The Truth About PGA Golf Courses: Are They All Par 72?

Golf is a game that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Professional golfers compete in tournaments on various golf courses, but have you ever wondered if all PGA courses are the same? In this article, we will explore the truth about PGA golf courses and whether they all follow the same par of 72. Get ready to tee off as we uncover the secrets of the professional golfing world.

What is the Par 72 Format?

The History of Par 72 in Golf

Par 72 is a widely used format in professional golf, particularly in major championships such as the Masters, U.S. Open, British Open, and PGA Championship. The concept of par 72 has been a cornerstone of golf for many years, but where did it come from? Let’s delve into the history of par 72 in golf.

The Evolution of Golf Course Design

The earliest golf courses were simply a series of holes cut out of natural terrain, with little regard for the difficulty of each hole. As golf became more popular, course designers began to experiment with different layouts and distances, leading to the creation of the first formal golf courses.

The Development of the Handicap System

In the late 19th century, the handicap system was introduced to golf, allowing players of different skill levels to compete against each other. This system was based on the idea that a golfer should receive a strokes advantage or disadvantage based on their skill level.

The Introduction of Par 72

The first golf course to be officially designated as a par 72 was the Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland, which was officially rated at par 72 in 1864. The concept of par 72 quickly caught on, and within a few decades, most golf courses around the world had adopted the format.

The Impact of Par 72 on Professional Golf

The adoption of par 72 as the standard format for professional golf had a significant impact on the sport. It allowed for more accurate scoring, making it easier to compare the performances of different golfers. It also made it easier to design and build golf courses that challenged the best players in the world.

In conclusion, the history of par 72 in golf is one of evolution and adaptation. From its roots in early golf course design to its impact on professional golf, par 72 has played a crucial role in shaping the sport as we know it today.

How Par 72 Affects the Game

Par 72 is a standard format used in professional golf courses, including those of the PGA. This format refers to the total number of strokes a golfer is expected to take in order to complete a round on a standard 18-hole course. A par 72 course is one that is designed to be played in three strokes less than the total number of holes.

One of the most significant ways in which par 72 affects the game is by establishing a baseline for scoring. Golfers are expected to reach certain scores in order to be considered competitive. For example, a golfer who scores four under par on a par 72 course is considered to have had a very good round. This standard helps to establish a clear benchmark for success, and allows golfers to measure their performance against one another.

Another way in which par 72 affects the game is by influencing the strategy that golfers use. On a par 72 course, there are typically four par 3s, four par 5s, and 10 par 4s. The varying lengths and difficulties of these holes require golfers to use different strategies in order to reach the green in the fewest strokes possible. For example, a golfer may choose to use a lower lofted club on a long par 5 in order to reach the green in two shots, or may opt for a higher lofted club on a short par 3 in order to avoid hazards or other obstacles.

Finally, par 72 affects the game by determining the length and difficulty of the course. Golfers must be able to hit the ball a certain distance in order to reach the green in regulation, and must also be able to control their shots in order to avoid hazards and other obstacles. A par 72 course is designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels, and requires a combination of power, accuracy, and strategy in order to succeed.

PGA Courses and Par 72

Understanding PGA Tournaments

Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) tournaments are a series of events held throughout the year, showcasing the world’s best golfers competing in various formats. These tournaments are a crucial aspect of the golfing world, with a significant impact on the careers of professional golfers. To understand the relationship between PGA courses and the par 72 designation, it is essential to explore the nature of PGA tournaments and their relevance to golf courses.

PGA Tournaments: A Comprehensive Overview

PGA tournaments are a collection of prestigious golf events that take place across the globe, featuring both individual and team competitions. These tournaments offer substantial prize money, attracting the best golfers from around the world to participate and showcase their skills. PGA tournaments come in various formats, including stroke play, match play, and team events, each with its unique set of rules and challenges.

The Significance of PGA Tournaments for Golf Courses

PGA tournaments have a significant impact on golf courses, as they serve as a benchmark for the quality and difficulty of a course. Hosting a PGA tournament is a great honor for golf courses, as it demonstrates that the course meets the high standards required to host some of the world’s best golfers. Additionally, hosting a PGA tournament can boost the course’s reputation, attracting more visitors and generating increased revenue.

PGA Tournaments and Par 72 Designations

PGA tournaments often take place on courses designed with a par 72 layout. Par 72 courses are popular among golfers and tournament organizers because they offer a challenging and well-rounded test of golf skills. These courses typically have a combination of par 3, 4, and 5 holes, with varying distances and difficulties, making them suitable for a wide range of skill levels.

In conclusion, PGA tournaments play a crucial role in shaping the design and reputation of golf courses, particularly in terms of par 72 layouts. Hosting a PGA tournament is a significant achievement for any golf course, as it demonstrates that the course meets the high standards required to host some of the world’s best golfers. Par 72 courses are widely recognized as offering a challenging and well-rounded test of golf skills, making them a popular choice for PGA tournaments and a sought-after designation for golf courses.

The Role of Par 72 in PGA Tournaments

• Understanding the significance of par 72 in PGA tournaments
  • Par 72 as the standard scoring system for professional golf tournaments
    • Origins of par 72 in golf courses design
      • The influence of golf course architects such as Harry Colt, Alister MacKenzie, and Donald Ross in establishing par 72 as the standard
      • The evolution of golf course design and the impact on the establishment of par 72 as the standard
    • The importance of par 72 in professional golf
      • The role of par 72 in determining the winner of a tournament
      • The use of par 72 as a benchmark for measuring the difficulty of a golf course
      • The impact of par 72 on the strategy and tactics employed by professional golfers
      • The psychological aspects of playing a par 72 golf course in a tournament setting
        • The mental and emotional challenges faced by golfers in a par 72 tournament
        • The strategies used by golfers to manage their emotions and mental state during a par 72 tournament
        • The impact of par 72 on the dynamics of a golf tournament, including the role of the gallery and the media
        • The role of par 72 in creating a sense of tradition and history in professional golf
        • The importance of par 72 in maintaining the integrity and credibility of professional golf
        • The influence of par 72 on the culture and etiquette of the sport
        • The impact of par 72 on the business and marketing aspects of professional golf
        • The role of par 72 in shaping the careers and legacies of professional golfers
        • The impact of par 72 on the development and growth of the sport of golf
        • The future of par 72 in professional golf and its potential evolution

Examining the Statistics

• Course Design and Par 72
  • The history of the par 72 designation
  • The role of par 72 in modern golf course design
  • The advantages and disadvantages of par 72 for golfers
• PGA Tournaments and Par 72
  • A breakdown of par 72 courses used in major PGA tournaments
  • The factors that influence the selection of par 72 courses for tournament play
  • The impact of par 72 on the strategic and tactical aspects of golf tournaments
• The Variability of Par 72
  • The range of par 72 scores achieved by professional golfers
  • The role of course conditions and weather in determining par 72 scores
  • The influence of player skill and experience on par 72 performance
• Myths and Misconceptions About Par 72
  • Debunking the myth that all PGA courses are par 72
  • Examining the prevalence of other par designations on PGA courses
  • The reasons behind the popularity of par 72 among golf course designers and golfers

Other Golf Course Formats

Par 71

When it comes to golf courses, Par 71 is another format that is commonly used in addition to Par 72. The term “Par” refers to the expected number of strokes a skilled golfer should take to complete a hole, and Par 71 means that the course is designed to be played in 71 strokes.

In contrast to Par 72, which is the most common format used in professional golf tournaments, Par 71 courses have one less hole, which means that there are 18 holes in total. However, this does not necessarily mean that Par 71 courses are easier than Par 72 courses. In fact, some of the most challenging golf courses in the world are designed as Par 71 courses.

One of the key differences between Par 71 and Par 72 courses is the difficulty of the holes. Par 71 courses tend to have shorter holes, but they are often more challenging due to their design. For example, a Par 71 course may have narrower fairways, more hazards, or more undulating greens, which can make it more difficult for golfers to score well.

Another difference between Par 71 and Par 72 courses is the overall length of the course. Par 71 courses are typically shorter than Par 72 courses, which means that golfers may be able to reach some of the holes in fewer strokes. However, this also means that the margin for error is smaller, and golfers must be more precise with their shots in order to score well.

Overall, while Par 72 is the most common format used in professional golf tournaments, Par 71 courses can be just as challenging and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, a round of golf on a Par 71 course can be a great way to test your skills and improve your game.

Par 70

In golf, the standard course format is 18 holes, with each hole having a par value assigned to it. Par 70 is one such format, where the course has 18 holes, but instead of each hole having a par of 4, there are a few holes with a par of 5, and some with a par of 3. The idea behind this format is to create a more challenging course for the players, as it increases the total par of the course to 70.

The Par 70 format is not as common as the standard Par 72 format, but it is still used in some tournaments and courses. It is usually used when the course designers want to create a more challenging layout, as the higher par values on some holes make it more difficult for players to score well.

One of the most famous courses that use the Par 70 format is the Augusta National Golf Club, which hosts the Masters Tournament each year. The course has 18 holes, with a par of 70, and is known for its challenging layout and iconic holes.

While the Par 70 format can be more challenging for players, it is not without its criticisms. Some argue that it can make the course too difficult, and that it can unfairly penalize players who are not as skilled or experienced. Additionally, some believe that the Par 70 format can make the game less enjoyable, as it requires players to use more strategy and precision to score well.

Overall, the Par 70 format is a unique and challenging format that is used in some golf courses and tournaments. While it has its advantages and disadvantages, it is an interesting alternative to the standard Par 72 format that many golfers enjoy playing.

Par 73

Par 73 is a format that is not as commonly used as par 72, but it can still be found on some golf courses. The par 73 format means that the course has 73 holes, with 18 holes on each of the three nines. However, unlike a standard par 72 course, the par 73 course will have one hole that is designated as a par 5, one hole that is designated as a par 4, and one hole that is designated as a par 3.

The par 73 format can be challenging for golfers, as they must adjust to the different lengths and difficulties of each hole. For example, the par 5 hole may be significantly longer than the other holes, and the par 4 hole may require more precision and accuracy. Additionally, the par 3 hole may be much shorter than the other holes, requiring golfers to use a different approach to reach the green.

Overall, the par 73 format can add an extra level of challenge and excitement to a round of golf, as golfers must adapt to the different pars and lengths of each hole. However, it can also be more difficult to score well on a par 73 course, as golfers must avoid making mistakes on the more challenging holes in order to maintain a low score.

Factors Affecting Par

Course Design

The design of a golf course plays a significant role in determining its par. Golf course architects carefully plan and design each hole to present a unique set of challenges for golfers. Various factors are considered during the design process, including the natural terrain, the intended difficulty of the hole, and the type of golf course (e.g., parkland, links, or desert).

• Terrain and Topography: The layout of the land influences the design of a golf course. Hilly courses often have more elevation changes, which can impact the distance and accuracy required for a successful shot. Flat courses may have more doglegs or wider fairways, requiring players to manage their shots in different ways.
• Difficulty and Risk/Reward Balance: The designer may choose to make a hole more challenging by incorporating hazards, such as water features, bunkers, or thick rough. This adds risk to the hole, and the par is increased to reflect the added difficulty. Conversely, a hole with fewer hazards and a wider fairway may be designed to be less challenging, with a lower par.
• Type of Golf Course: Different types of golf courses have distinct design characteristics that can influence the par of a hole. For example, parkland courses often have narrower fairways and more trees, while links courses may have wider fairways and more exposed windy conditions. Desert courses may feature sand traps and rock formations, which can significantly impact the playability of a hole.
• Golf Course Architect’s Vision: The designer’s intent and personal style can also impact the par of a hole. Some architects prefer to create courses that are more strategic, while others may focus on creating visually stunning layouts. The designer’s approach can influence the par assigned to each hole.

In conclusion, the design of a golf course plays a crucial role in determining its par. The layout, terrain, difficulty, type of course, and designer’s vision are all factors that contribute to the par assigned to each hole on a PGA golf course.

Weather Conditions

When it comes to the factors that affect the par of a golf course, weather conditions play a significant role. The following are some of the ways in which weather conditions can impact the par of a golf course:

• Temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect the condition of the golf course, making it more difficult for players to score well. For example, very hot temperatures can cause the greens to become dry and fast, making it difficult to control the ball’s movement. On the other hand, extremely cold temperatures can make the golf course more challenging by slowing down the pace of the ball and making it more difficult to hit accurate shots.
• Wind: Wind can have a significant impact on the par of a golf course. Strong winds can affect the flight of the ball, making it more difficult to hit accurate shots and control the ball’s direction. Additionally, wind can affect the distance that the ball travels, making it more challenging to reach certain holes and greens.
• Rain: Rain can affect the par of a golf course by making it more difficult to control the ball’s movement and distance. Heavy rain can make the golf course more challenging by making the fairways and greens more slippery, affecting the player’s ability to make accurate shots.
• Humidity: Humidity can affect the par of a golf course by affecting the player’s ability to grip the club and control the ball’s direction. High humidity can make the golf club slippery, making it more difficult to hit accurate shots.

In conclusion, weather conditions can have a significant impact on the par of a golf course. It is important for players to consider the weather conditions when playing a round of golf and adjust their strategy accordingly.

Skill Level of Players

Golf courses often have different par values assigned to their holes based on their difficulty level. However, it is essential to consider the skill level of players when determining the par of a golf course. Par values are not static and can change depending on the level of play of the golfers. In this section, we will explore how the skill level of players can affect the par of a golf course.

One of the most critical factors that affect the par of a golf course is the skill level of the players who will be playing on it. A golf course that is designed for professional golfers may have a higher par value than a course designed for amateur golfers. Professional golfers have a higher level of skill and can handle more challenging holes, while amateur golfers may struggle with the same holes.

When designing a golf course, the course architect considers the skill level of the target audience. For example, if the golf course is designed for beginner golfers, the par values of the holes will be lower to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for them. On the other hand, if the golf course is designed for experienced golfers, the par values of the holes will be higher to provide a more significant challenge.

Another factor that affects the par of a golf course is the course conditions. If the course is in poor condition, the par values of the holes may be lowered to make the game more fair for all players. However, if the course is in excellent condition, the par values of the holes may be higher to provide a more significant challenge.

In conclusion, the skill level of players is a crucial factor that affects the par of a golf course. Golf course architects consider the skill level of the target audience when designing a golf course to ensure that the game is enjoyable and challenging for all players. Therefore, it is essential to understand the skill level of the players who will be playing on a golf course to determine its par value accurately.

Myths and Misconceptions

Is Par 72 the Only Option for PGA Courses?

When it comes to the par of a golf course, many people assume that all PGA courses must be designed with a par of 72. However, this is simply not true. In fact, the par of a golf course can vary greatly depending on the design and layout of the course.

One of the main factors that determines the par of a golf course is the difficulty of the holes. Some holes may be designed to be relatively easy, while others may be extremely challenging. The par of a hole is determined by the number of strokes a skilled golfer should be able to make in order to reach the green in regulation.

For example, a hole that measures 300 yards and has a relatively flat fairway may be considered a par 4, while a hole that measures 500 yards and has a steep incline and hazards throughout may be considered a par 5. In some cases, a hole may even be considered a par 3, despite being longer than 300 yards, if it has a particularly difficult approach shot.

It’s worth noting that while the par of a golf course can vary, the overall par of the course is still an important factor in determining the difficulty of the course. A course with a mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s will generally be more challenging than a course with mostly par 4s, for example.

So, while par 72 may be the most common par for PGA courses, it is not the only option. Each golf course is unique, and the par of the course is just one aspect of what makes it challenging and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.

Do Pros Always Play Par 72 Courses?

One common misconception about PGA golf courses is that professionals always play courses that are par 72. In reality, the par of a golf course can vary greatly and is not always set at 72. The par of a golf course is determined by the difficulty of each hole, with par 3s being the easiest and par 5s being the most difficult.

Professional golfers play a variety of courses with different pars, and the par of a course is not a determining factor in the skill level required to play it. In fact, some of the most challenging courses in the world are par 68 or par 69, and they still host PGA tournaments.

Additionally, some courses may have different pars for different holes. For example, a course may have four par 3s, ten par 4s, and four par 5s. This means that the par of the course is not a fixed number, but rather a calculation of the average par for each hole.

In conclusion, while par 72 is a common par for PGA golf courses, it is not a requirement, and professionals play a variety of courses with different pars. The par of a course is determined by the difficulty of each hole, and a course’s par is not a determining factor in the skill level required to play it.

Can a Course Be Too Easy or Too Difficult for PGA Tournaments?

Course Design and Difficulty

Golf course design plays a crucial role in determining the difficulty of a course for PGA tournaments. The course architect’s intent is to create a challenging yet fair layout that tests the skills of the world’s best golfers. Course design elements such as hazards, bunkers, water features, and the strategic placement of trees can significantly affect the difficulty of a course. Additionally, the length of the course, the elevation changes, and the condition of the turf can also impact the overall difficulty.

Course Rating and Slope

The United States Golf Association (USGA) provides a course rating and slope system to help golfers understand the difficulty of a course. The course rating, on a scale of 0 to 10, indicates the overall difficulty of the course for a scratch golfer, while the slope rating, on a scale of 0 to 20, measures the difference between the course rating and the expected score of a scratch golfer. A higher slope rating indicates a greater difference between the course rating and the expected score, which translates to a more difficult course.

Tournament Host Criteria

When hosting a PGA tournament, courses must meet specific criteria to ensure that the event is conducted fairly and the players have an equal chance of winning. The criteria include:

1. The course must be open to the public for at least two weeks prior to the tournament.
2. The course must have a USGA course rating and slope rating.
3. The course must have a sufficient number of yardage markers, and they must be visible to players.
4. The course must have adequate facilities for players, media, and spectators.
5. The course must have a proven record of hosting successful tournaments.

Balancing Course Difficulty

The difficulty of a PGA golf course must be balanced to provide a fair challenge to the world’s best golfers. If a course is deemed too easy, it may not be suitable for hosting a PGA tournament, as it would not provide a sufficient test of skill for the players. On the other hand, if a course is too difficult, it could potentially lead to higher scores and an unfair disadvantage for some players. The goal is to create a course that is challenging yet fair, allowing the best players to showcase their abilities.

In conclusion, the difficulty of a PGA golf course is determined by various factors, including course design, rating and slope, and tournament host criteria. It is essential to balance the difficulty of a course to provide a fair challenge to the world’s best golfers and ensure an exciting and competitive event for spectators.

The Par 72 Format: A Necessity or a Convenience?

The question of whether PGA golf courses are all par 72 is one that has been asked by many golf enthusiasts. The truth is that while most PGA golf courses are indeed par 72, there are some that are par 70 or par 71. So, what determines the par of a golf course?

One of the most common misconceptions about the par of a golf course is that it is a requirement for hosting a PGA tournament. However, this is not the case. The par of a golf course is determined by its design and the difficulty of its holes. The purpose of the par system is to provide a standardized way of measuring the difficulty of a hole or a course.

The par of a hole is usually determined by the number of strokes an expert golfer would require to complete the hole. A par 3 hole is one that an expert golfer would be expected to complete in three strokes, a par 4 hole is one that an expert golfer would be expected to complete in four strokes, and a par 5 hole is one that an expert golfer would be expected to complete in five strokes. However, the actual number of strokes required to complete a hole can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the skill level of the golfer, the weather conditions, and the condition of the course.

Another factor that can influence the par of a golf course is the length of its holes. Generally, the longer the hole, the higher its par will be. This is because longer holes require more strokes to complete, and therefore, they are considered more difficult. However, this is not always the case, as some shorter holes can be very difficult and require more strokes to complete than longer holes.

So, why do golf courses have different pars? Well, it’s simply a matter of design and difficulty. Different golf courses are designed to challenge golfers of different skill levels, and the par of a hole or a course is just one way of measuring its difficulty. Some courses are designed to be very difficult, with long holes and tricky hazards, while others are designed to be more accessible to golfers of all skill levels.

In conclusion, while most PGA golf courses are indeed par 72, there is no requirement for them to be so. The par of a golf course is determined by its design and the difficulty of its holes, and can vary from course to course. The purpose of the par system is to provide a standardized way of measuring the difficulty of a hole or a course, but it is not a requirement for hosting a PGA tournament.

The Future of Golf Course Design

Evolution of Golf Course Design

The future of golf course design is constantly evolving, with architects seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible. Golf courses are becoming more diverse, with new designs incorporating different terrain types, natural features, and unique challenges. As technology advances, golf course designers are using sophisticated software and tools to create more accurate models and simulations, enabling them to design courses that are more challenging, fun, and sustainable.

Sustainability and Environmentalism

One of the biggest trends in golf course design is the emphasis on sustainability and environmentalism. Many golf course architects are now incorporating sustainable design principles into their work, such as using native plants and materials, preserving natural habitats, and reducing water usage. This approach not only helps to protect the environment but also creates courses that are more visually appealing and engaging for players.

Innovative Features and Technologies

Another trend in golf course design is the incorporation of innovative features and technologies. Some designers are experimenting with new materials, such as recycled plastics and composites, to create unique and durable course features. Others are incorporating technology, such as GPS-enabled devices and augmented reality, to enhance the player experience and provide valuable data for course management.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Finally, the future of golf course design is also focused on accessibility and inclusivity. Many architects are designing courses that are more accessible to players of all abilities, with wider fairways, flatter lies, and more generous greens. This approach not only makes the game more enjoyable for everyone but also helps to grow the sport and attract new players.

In conclusion, the future of golf course design is exciting and full of possibilities. With new technologies, sustainable design principles, innovative features, and a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, golf courses are evolving to meet the changing needs and expectations of players. As the sport continues to grow and evolve, golf course designers will play a crucial role in shaping the future of golf and creating unforgettable experiences for players of all levels.

Embracing the Unique Challenges of Each Course

One of the most significant aspects of golf is the challenge that each course presents. PGA golf courses are known for their unique designs, which feature various obstacles, hazards, and challenges that can make or break a player’s game.

Each PGA golf course is designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels, from the most seasoned professionals to amateurs. These courses are meticulously designed to offer a range of difficulties, from short par-3 holes to long par-5 holes that require strategic thinking and precise shot-making.

One of the key features of PGA golf courses is the use of hazards, such as water features, bunkers, and trees, which can significantly impact a golfer’s score. Golfers must be skilled at navigating these hazards, as well as dealing with uneven terrain, wind, and other environmental factors that can affect their shots.

In addition to hazards, PGA golf courses often feature other design elements that can challenge golfers, such as tight fairways, elevated greens, and hidden bunkers. These elements require golfers to think strategically about their shots and to be able to adapt to changing conditions on the course.

Another unique challenge of PGA golf courses is the use of various hole designs, such as doglegs, which require golfers to make strategic decisions about their shots. Some holes may also feature different tee boxes, which can significantly change the difficulty of the hole and require golfers to adjust their strategy accordingly.

Overall, PGA golf courses are designed to challenge golfers in a variety of ways, from the physical demands of the course to the mental challenges of strategic decision-making. Golfers who are able to embrace these challenges and develop the skills necessary to navigate them are well on their way to becoming successful players on the PGA tour.

FAQs

1. What is the par of a golf course?

The par of a golf course is the expected number of strokes a skilled golfer should take to complete a hole or an entire course. The par is usually denoted by a number such as 3, 4, or 5, and is used as a benchmark for scoring.

2. What is a par 72 golf course?

A par 72 golf course is a course where each hole is designated with a par of 72 strokes. This means that a skilled golfer should be able to complete the course in 72 strokes or less. Par 72 is a common par rating for many golf courses, especially those used for professional tournaments.

3. Are all PGA courses par 72?

No, not all PGA courses are par 72. While many professional golf courses are designed with a par of 72, there are also courses with different par ratings. The par rating of a golf course depends on the design and difficulty of the course, and can range from par 64 to par 76 or higher.

4. How is the par rating of a golf course determined?

The par rating of a golf course is determined by the difficulty of the course and the expected number of strokes a skilled golfer should take to complete each hole. Course designers and architects consider factors such as length, elevation changes, hazards, and other obstacles to determine the appropriate par rating for each hole and the overall course.

5. Why do some golf courses have different par ratings?

Golf courses can have different par ratings due to a variety of factors, including the length and difficulty of the course, the design of the holes, and the types of hazards and obstacles present. Some courses may be designed to be more challenging and have a higher par rating, while others may be more forgiving and have a lower par rating. The par rating of a golf course can also be adjusted over time as the course ages and new holes are added or modified.

Kiawah Island Ocean Course Par 72 Introduction – EA PGA Tour