Chicago: Players start with a set number of points (eg: -19). They then earn points
based on their hole-by-hole performance, similar to Stableford scoring. The goal is to exceed the
starting point total by scoring well.
Eagle or better: +8 points
Birdie: +4 points
Par: +2 points
Bogey or worse: +1 point
Closest to the Pin: A contest typically played on a par-3 hole where the player who
lands their ball closest to the hole on their tee shot wins. It rewards accuracy rather than overall
score.
Gross: The total number of strokes a player takes to complete the round, without any
handicap adjustments. It represents a player's raw score.
Gross Best Ball: Each player plays their own ball throughout the round, and the best
score between the two is recorded as the team's score for each hole.
Longest Drive: A competition that takes place on a designated hole where the longest
tee shot that lands in the fairway is recorded as the winner. It focuses on power and distance off the
tee.
Longest Putt A contest that recognizes the longest successful putt made during the
round. The putt must be holed out to qualify, and the winner is determined by the greatest distance.
Modified Stableford: A points-based scoring system where players earn points based on
their performance on each hole. Instead of counting total strokes, players are awarded or deducted
points using a predetermined system. The goal is to accumulate the highest point total rather than the
lowest stroke count.
Eagle or better: +4 points
Birdie: +2 points
Par: 0 points
Bogey: -1 point
Double bogey or worse: -2 points
Net: The total strokes taken minus a player's handicap. This format levels the playing
field by allowing higher-handicap golfers to compete against lower-handicap players on an equitable
basis.
Net Best Ball Similar to Gross Best Ball, but handicaps are applied to each player's
score before determining the best score for the hole. This makes the game fairer for players of
different skill levels.
Points-Based: A format where players accumulate points based on their scores on each
hole. Points can be awarded at the discretion of the tournament organizer. The player or team with the
highest point total at the end wins.
Scramble: All players on the team hit a tee shot, then select the best ball position.
From that spot, teammates hit their next shot, and the process repeats until the hole is completed. This
format emphasizes teamwork and strategy, as it allows teammates to take advantage of their combined
strengths.