Jackson Reid
Golf is a versatile sport that offers a multitude of formats catering to diverse preferences and group sizes. The traditional formats are match play and stroke play, but there are numerous other creative formats that add excitement and variety to the game. These formats introduce unique rules, challenges, and scoring methods, providing a fresh twist to the traditional game. Whether you're seeking strategic gameplay, skill development, or simply a fun time with friends, exploring different golf formats can elevate your golfing experience. From popular formats like Stableford, Bingo Bango Bongo, and Shamble to lesser-known variations like Criers and Whiners, Devil Ball, and Arnies, the possibilities are nearly endless. So, the next time you hit the green, why not try out a new format and spice up your weekend rounds?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of players | Individuals, 2-person teams, 3-person teams, 4-person teams, 5-person teams, 6-person teams |
| Scoring methods | Stroke play, match play, points-based, skins, side bets |
| Starting procedures | Everyone begins from the first tee, 2 tee start (split between first and tenth tee), loops of 9 holes |
| Formats | Stableford, Modified Stableford, Bingo Bango Bongo, Flags, Quota, Shamble, Scramble, Best Ball, Nassau, Round Robin, Texas Scramble, Ambrose, Florida Scramble, Devil Ball, Criers and Whiners, Chapman, Patsome, Wolf, High and Low, Niner |
| Rules | Rules of Golf, Rules established by players |
| Handicap | Used, Not used |
| Winning criteria | Highest score, Lowest score, Most holes won, Most segments won, Most holes-in-one, Most points |
| Course | 18 holes, 9 holes |
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What You'll Learn
- Stableford: a points-based stroke game for individuals or teams
- Bingo Bango Bongo: a points-based game with three achievements per hole
- Shamble: teams select the best drive after each player tees off
- Match play: a head-to-head competition where the player who wins the most holes wins
- Scramble: a relaxed format where all team members tee off and the team selects the best shot
Stableford: a points-based stroke game for individuals or teams
Stableford is a scoring system used in golf that can be played as an individual or team event. It is a points-based stroke game where the objective is to gain the highest score, differing from traditional scoring methods where the aim is to have the lowest score.
The Stableford format was developed by Frank Barney Gorton Stableford (1870–1959) to deter golfers from giving up on their round after just one or two bad holes. It was first used at the Glamorganshire Golf Club, Penarth, Wales, in 1898, and first used in competition at Wallasey Golf Club in Wallasey, England, in 1932. Stableford is especially popular in the UK and is the preferred scoring system for many club competitions and social golf events.
The number of points awarded per hole is determined by the number of strokes taken to par before being adjusted in relation to the player’s handicap. A common or standard Stableford point value would be:
- 6 points – Four strokes under
- 5 points – Three strokes under
- 4 points – Two strokes under
- 3 points – One stroke under
- 2 points – Level par
- 1 point – One stroke over
- 0 points – Two strokes or more over
The standard Stableford system can be altered to use different point levels, commonly referred to as a Modified Stableford system. In a Modified Stableford, the points system may be skewed to give every player a fair chance. For example, in professional golf, the Barracuda Championship on the PGA Tour has used the following scoring table:
- 8 points – Albatross
- 5 points – Eagle
- 2 points – Birdie
- 0 points – Par
- 1 point – Bogey
- 3 points – Double Bogey or worse
Stableford has the added benefit of speeding up the pace of play, as once it is no longer possible to score a point, players do not have to complete the hole.
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Bingo Bango Bongo: a points-based game with three achievements per hole
Bingo Bango Bongo is a points-based golf game that can be played with two or more players. It is a fantastic format for golfers of varying skill levels to compete against each other.
There are three points available to win on each hole, and the player with the most points at the end of the game is the winner. The first point, known as the "bingo" point, is awarded to the first player to land their ball on the green. The second point, the "bango" point, goes to the player whose ball is closest to the pin once all balls are on the green. The final point, the "bongo" point, is given to the first player who holes out.
It is important to note that Bingo Bango Bongo requires strict adherence to golf etiquette. All shots must be taken in order, with the player furthest away from the hole always playing first. This means that tap-outs and gimmies are not allowed. If a player goes out of turn to win the "bingo" or "bongo" point, the point is instead awarded to the second person to achieve it.
To add an extra layer of excitement to the game, you can award double points to any golfer who wins all three points on a single hole. This is a challenging feat, as the player who is closest to the pin (earning the "bango" point) is usually not the first to hole out (earning the "bongo" point).
Bingo Bango Bongo is a versatile game that can be adapted to suit the preferences of the players. For example, you can decide beforehand how much each point is worth, or set a fixed amount for the entire game, with the winner taking the pot.
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Shamble: teams select the best drive after each player tees off
Golf is a sport that can be played in a variety of formats. One such format is the "shamble".
In a shamble format, teams of 2, 3, or 4 players compete together. Each player tees off at every hole. After everyone has teed off, the team selects the best drive, and each team member plays their second shot from that position. After the second shot, each golfer plays with their own ball for the remainder of the hole. For example, in a team of players A and B, both tee off. If player A hits the better drive, then both players take their second shot from player A's spot, and then play their own balls for the rest of the hole.
The shamble format is a variation of the scramble format, which is typically played with four players. In a scramble, all players tee off, and then they find the best golf ball and all hit their second shots from that spot. The shamble format adds a twist to this by allowing each player to play with their own ball after the second shot. This means that the shamble format is part stroke play and part scramble.
The shamble format can also be played with just two players, which is known as a "Texas shamble" or "modified shamble". This version is harder to score well in, as there are fewer chances of hitting a good tee shot and there are fewer total scores for the hole. However, it's a lot easier to score well in this format compared to alternate shot or best ball. In a Texas shamble, each player tees off and then they select the best drive and play the hole from there, which provides more options off the tee.
Handicaps can be used in shambles, and it is reasonable to use players' full handicaps due to the mix of abilities typical in such tournaments.
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Match play: a head-to-head competition where the player who wins the most holes wins
Match play is a golf format that involves a head-to-head competition between players or teams. Unlike stroke play, where the winner is determined by the total number of strokes taken, match play focuses on the number of holes won. The objective is to win the most holes, and the player or team with the highest number of holes won at the end of the match is declared the winner.
In match play, the competition is centred on each individual hole, and the player or team with the best score on a particular hole wins that hole. This format encourages a more direct and targeted approach, as players aim to outperform their opponents hole by hole rather than focusing on the overall round. It adds a layer of strategy and intensity to the game, as players strive to secure as many holes as possible.
The scoring in match play is calculated by counting the total number of holes won and subtracting the number of holes lost. This results in a net score that determines the winner. For example, if Player A wins 5 holes and loses 3 holes, their net score is +2, indicating they are 2 holes ahead. This format emphasises the importance of consistency and hole-by-hole performance.
Match play can be played by individuals or teams, offering versatility in how the format is applied. When played in teams, also known as "Better Ball", each team member plays their own ball throughout the game. After each hole, the lowest score from each team member becomes the team's official score for that hole. This variation adds a strategic element, as teams aim to coordinate their efforts to achieve the best overall score.
Match play is a popular format in golf tournaments and friendly competitions, offering a direct and engaging way to play the game. It fosters a competitive spirit and allows players to focus on winning individual holes, creating a dynamic and challenging experience on the course.
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Scramble: a relaxed format where all team members tee off and the team selects the best shot
Scramble golf is a relaxed format that is perfect for novices, non-golfers, and casual golfers. It is a popular format for corporate, charity, and fundraising events as it is inclusive and welcoming to golfers of all skill levels.
In a scramble format, all team members tee off, and the team selects the best shot. The golfers then play their second shot from that chosen position, and the process is repeated until the hole is completed. Only one score counts per hole for each team, and the best scores for each hole are added up to determine the winning team.
There are several variations of the scramble format, including Ambrose, which uses net scoring with a team handicap, and Florida Scramble, where the player whose ball is selected does not play the next shot. Another variation is Texas Scramble, which requires each team member to contribute a set number of tee shots, and the golfer whose ball is selected after each stroke sits out the following stroke.
The scramble format is an excellent choice for fun and relaxed events, as it takes the pressure off and allows golfers to focus on enjoying the game and the social aspect of the event. It is a great way to introduce beginners to the game and create a positive golfing experience for all participants.
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Frequently asked questions
Match Play is a hole-by-hole competition where the golfer who makes the best score on the individual hole wins that hole. The player who wins the most holes throughout the match is the winner.
In Stroke Play, the golfer with the best overall score after 18 holes wins. It is a cumulative score competition where you go up against the course and try to outperform your competitors.
Scramble involves teams of 2, 3, or 4 golfers. Each team member tees off on every hole, then the team selects the best shot, and each team member plays their next shot from that spot. Scramble is often played as stroke play, with the team with the lowest cumulative score winning.
Also known as Better Ball, this format involves teams of 2 to 4 players, with each member playing their own ball throughout the game. After each hole, the lowest score from each team member is the team's score for that hole. The team with the lowest score at the end wins.
Skins Game can be played individually or as teams. Each hole is worth a skin, and the golfer with the lowest score on a hole wins the skin. If there is a tie, the skin is carried over to the next hole. The player with the most skins at the end wins.
