Looking to make your next round of golf more entertaining? Try incorporating these four popular on-course games that are enjoyed both amateurs and PGA professionals alike.
1. 9-Point
The 9-Point game is a great option for three players of any skill level. Each player plays their own ball, and after each hole, points are awarded based on performance. The possible point distributions are as follows:
- 3 points – 3 points – 3 points: All three players tie the hole.
- 4 points – 4 points – 1 point: Two players tie for low ball.
- 5 points – 2 points – 2 points: One player has low ball and the other two players tie.
- 5 points – 3 points – 1 point: Players finish first, second, and third on a hole.
- 9 points – 0 points – 0 points: One player wins the hole two shots over both players.
The beauty of the 9-Point game is that no one is concerned with their actual score, just the points earned. This game allows for great holes to be rewarded and OK holes to still add to your point total. Give it a try!
2. Wolf
Wolf is a game meant for four players and offers an exciting, rotating team dynamic. On each hole, players tee off in a rotating batting order, with the last player in the order being the “Wolf.” The Wolf will then watch the other players tee off and decide if they want to be partners with any of them for that hole. The game continues this way for all 18 holes, with the player who has the least amount of points after 16 holes becoming the Wolf for the final two holes.
Points are distributed based on the scenarios below:
- If the Wolf chooses a partner and their team wins, they each get 2 points. If they lose, the other team gets 3 points each.
- If the Wolf chooses to play as a Lone Wolf and wins, the Lone Wolf gets 4 points. If the Lone Wolf loses, the other players get 2 points each.
With the Wolf game, there is the potential for pressure and strategic decision-making, adding an extra level of excitement to your round.
3. Pick Up Sticks
For a fun and entertaining partner-based game, try Pick Up Sticks. This game can be played with 2-4 people, and the objective is to “steal” each other’s clubs. If Player A beats Player B on a hole, Player A gets to choose any club (except putter) from Player B’s bag. Player B can win their club back if they beat Player A on a subsequent hole. The same rules apply if Player A loses a hole; one of their clubs goes “bye-bye.”
Pick Up Sticks adds a playful twist to your round, as you may find yourself using clubs in unconventional situations.
4. Bingo, Bango, Bongo
Bingo, Bango, Bongo is a game that can be played with any number of people in your group. Each hole has three points up for grabs:
- Bingo: This point is awarded to the player who hits the green first.
- Bango: Once all players’ balls are on the green, this point is given to whoever hit it closest to the pin.
- Bongo: The “Bongo” point is given to the player who gets the ball in the hole first.
This game not only adds a competitive element to your round but also helps improve accuracy and putting skills.
The next time you’re on the golf course, try incorporating these fun and entertaining on-course games. They are a great way to enhance your enjoyment of the round and make your time on the course even more memorable!