Below is an context that describes a sql query, paired with an question that provides further information. Write an answer that appropriately completes the request.  # noqa: E501
### Context:
CREATE TABLE table_name_9 (to_par VARCHAR, player VARCHAR, total VARCHAR)
### Question:
What is total number of the to par of player john mahaffey, who has a total less than 298?
### Answer:
SELECT COUNT(to_par) FROM table_name_9 WHERE player = "john mahaffey" AND total < 298