The Most Popular Golf Tournament Formats

Have you been interested in participating in a golf tournament but are unsure what the rules are based on its name or description? Understanding the various golf tournament formats is essential for a fun and competitive experience. With a wide array of options, we will explore the most popular formats that cater to golfers of all skill levels. From gross versus net tournaments to exciting formats like best ball, scramble, shamble, alternate shot, match play, and money ball, this guide will provide valuable insights to enhance your tournament experience.

First, Gross vs. Net Tournaments:

Before delving into specific formats, it’s important to understand the distinction between gross and net tournaments. In a gross tournament, scores are based solely on the total number of strokes, disregarding handicaps. Net tournaments, on the other hand, level the playing field by allowing players to subtract their handicap strokes from their gross scores, enabling golfers of different skill levels to compete on a more equitable basis.

Six Popular Golf Tournament Formats:

Best Ball

Best ball tournaments typically involve teams of two, three, or four players. Each member plays their own ball throughout the round, and at the end of each hole, the lowest score among team members is recorded as the team’s score. This format encourages teamwork and strategic decision-making as teams aim for the best possible score on each hole.

Scramble

The scramble format is renowned for emphasizing teamwork and creating an enjoyable and social atmosphere. Teams of two, three, or four players tee off individually, and the group then selects the best shot. All team members proceed to play their subsequent shots from the chosen spot. This process continues until the ball is holed. The scramble format allows players of varying skill levels to contribute and fosters camaraderie among teammates.

Shamble

Combining elements of scramble and best ball formats, shamble tournaments offer an intriguing twist. Each player tees off individually, and the team selects the best tee shot. From that point, each player plays their own ball until the hole is completed. Like best ball, the team records the lowest score among its members. Shamble tournaments provide an opportunity for individual performance while still emphasizing teamwork.

Alternate Shot

Also known as foursomes, alternate shot tournaments involve teams of two players. Each team member takes turns hitting shots, alternating on each hole. One player tees off on odd-numbered holes, while the other tees off on even-numbered holes. The alternate shot format requires excellent team communication and coordination, making it a thrilling and strategic tournament style.

Match Play

Match play tournaments focus on head-to-head competition between golfers. Each hole is treated as a separate match, with players aiming to win the most holes. The golfer who wins the most holes emerges as the match play winner. This format provides an intense and engaging experience as players compete against opponents directly.

Money Ball

The money ball format, also known as lone ranger or pink ball, is played with teams of four players. Each hole designates one team member as the “money ball” player. The team score combines the money ball player’s score with the lowest score among the other team members. Rotating the money ball designation throughout the round adds an exciting element of strategy and team dynamics to the tournament.

Expand Your Experience with a Golf Tournament at EPGC!

You don’t need to be a professional to participate in a golf tournament. At the Eagle Point Golf Club, we host golf tournaments in various formats to make participation fun and challenging for golfers of all skill levels. Check out our website to view our calendar of men’s and women’s events and descriptions of the golf tournament formats for each. And don’t forget; you can level up your gameplay with personalized coaching from our in-house golf professional, Logan Genaw. We can’t wait to see you out on the greens soon!