Golf Tournament Formats Explained: Finding the Right Fit for Every Golfer

When it comes to golf, competition comes in many forms, and we’re not just talking about your playing partners. From casual scrambles to high-stakes match play events, golf tournament formats vary widely, each offering a unique experience that caters to different skill levels, strategies, and group dynamics. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing with friends or preparing for a club championship, understanding the different tournament formats can elevate your enjoyment and improve your performance.

At Fairlawn Golf, we believe the format should match the fun, and the challenge. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the most common (and a few lesser-known) golf tournament formats, highlight their advantages, and help you choose the best one for your next round.

1. Stroke Play: The Foundation of Competitive Golf

Overview:
Stroke play is the most widely used tournament format in the world of golf. Each golfer plays their own ball for the entire round, and the player with the lowest total number of strokes at the end wins.

Why it’s popular:

• It’s simple, fair, and works well for all levels.
  
• Used in most professional tournaments (like the PGA Tour).
  
• Every shot counts, increasing pressure and precision.
  

Best for:
Golfers who enjoy testing their full game and want to track personal progress.

Fairlawn Tip:
Our 18-hole championship course is designed for consistency and challenge, making it ideal for stroke play. Check out our Spring Classic and Club Championship, both classic examples of this format.

2. Match Play: Golfer vs. Golfer

Overview:
In match play, players compete to win individual holes. The player who wins the most holes wins the match, regardless of total strokes.

Example:
If you make a 4 and your opponent makes a 5 on Hole 1, you’re 1 up. If you’re 2 up with one hole left, you’ve won 2&1.

Why it’s fun:

• Encourages aggressive play (since a bad hole doesn’t ruin the round).
  
• Great for head-to-head showdowns.
  
• Keeps matches competitive even after a bad stretch.
  

Best for:
Duel-style competitions, club ladders, or friendly rivalries.

Fairlawn Tip:
For a twist on match play, pair it with our indoor simulators, ideal for matchups that don’t rely on the weather.

3. Scramble: Team Play at Its Best

Overview:
In a scramble, every team member tees off. The best shot is selected, and everyone plays from that spot. This continues until the ball is holed.

Why it’s great for events:

• Promotes teamwork and camaraderie.
  
• Speeds up play.
  
• Perfect for beginners and mixed-skill teams.
  

Best for:
Charity events, company outings, and social tournaments.

Fairlawn Tip:
Our annual golf outings often use the scramble format to keep the day lighthearted and inclusive. It’s also a great way to enjoy a post-round meal at our pub without worrying about your scorecard.

4. Best Ball (Four-Ball): Individual Skill, Team Advantage

Overview:
Each team member plays their own ball throughout the round. The best score among teammates counts for the team on each hole.

Example:
If you shoot a 5 and your partner makes a 4 on the same hole, the team score is 4.

Why players love it:

• Keeps pressure low since only one player needs a great hole.
  
• Allows individual play with a team component.
  
• Great for competitive but friendly events.
  

Best for:
Tournaments with more skilled players or weekend team matches.

Fairlawn Tip:
Pair this format with our Friday evening mixers, grab a drink at the pub, find a partner, and enjoy some friendly competition.

5. Stableford: Rewarding Risk and Strategy

Overview:
Stableford scoring uses a points system based on your score relative to par. For example:

• Double bogey or worse = 0 points
  
• Bogey = 1 point
  
• Par = 2 points
  
• Birdie = 3 points
  
• Eagle = 4 points
  
• Albatross = 5 points
  

Why it’s strategic:

• Encourages aggressive play (bad holes don’t hurt as much).
  
• Speeds up play because players pick up after double bogey.
  
• Keeps everyone in the game longer.
  

Best for:
Competitive players who enjoy strategy and scoring variety.

Fairlawn Tip:
Try this format during a practice round on our back nine, it’s a great way to learn where to take risks.

6. Alternate Shot (Foursomes): The Ultimate Team Bond

Overview:
Two-person teams alternate shots with the same ball. One player tees off on even-numbered holes, the other on odd-numbered holes.

Why it’s challenging:

• Requires trust and coordination.
  
• Forces both players to think strategically about shot placement.
  
• One mistake affects both players.
  

Best for:
Small group events, couples tournaments, or players looking for a challenge.

Fairlawn Tip:
This format pairs nicely with a post-round drink at the pub, you’ll have plenty to talk about!

7. Greensomes and Chapman (Modified Alternate Shot)

Overview:
Both players tee off, choose the best shot, then alternate shots until the ball is holed.

Why it’s easier than full alternate shot:

• You start with the best drive.
  
• Still requires teamwork but allows a better start.
  

Best for:
Couples events or mixed-skill teams.

Fairlawn Tip:
Great for casual tournaments held during spring weekends. Add in lunch or drinks at the Fairlawn pub to round out the day.

8. Shamble: The Best of Both Worlds

Overview:
Everyone tees off, the best drive is selected, then each player plays their own ball from that point.

Why it’s popular:

• Combines team strategy and individual scoring.
  
• Encourages solid tee shots without penalizing poor ones.
  
• Fun for groups who want to compete without the stress of every shot counting.
  

Best for:
Intermediate players, fundraiser events, or hybrid team formats.

9. Flags, Skins, and Quota Games

Flags

Players carry a “flag” as far as their stroke allowance (score) will take them. The furthest player wins.

Skins

Each hole is worth a "skin" (a prize or point). If no one wins a hole outright, the skin carries to the next hole.

Quota

Players receive a point quota based on handicap. Earn points with net bogeys or better, beat your quota to win.

Fairlawn Tip:
These formats are ideal for casual weeknight games or simulator leagues in the off-season. They also pair well with beer, burgers, and our rotating pub menu.

Matching Format to Group Type

Planning Your Own Tournament at Fairlawn Golf

Whether you’re hosting a small birthday tournament or a company-wide event, Fairlawn Golf is the ideal venue:

• 18-hole championship course with yardages for all levels
  
• Full-service Pro Shop for gear and registration
  
• Simulator rooms for warmups, rain checks, or after-hours fun
  
• Condo lodging on-site for overnight guests
  
• Pub with food and drinks to keep the good times going
  

Our team can help you:

• Choose the right format
  
• Design scorecards
  
• Handle pairings and results
  
• Coordinate meals and awards
  

Contact our events team to get started: www.fairlawngolf.com

Variety Keeps Golf Fresh

From match play rivalries to team scrambles and everything in between, golf tournament formats add excitement and structure to the game. Whether you're looking to build your confidence, bond with friends, or bring out your competitive edge, there’s a format for you, and Fairlawn Golf is the place to try them all.

Ready to test a new format or plan your own event? Visit our website to explore our course, view upcoming tournaments, or schedule your outing. Let’s make your next round unforgettable.