Golf isn’t just a test of skill and patience; it’s also a playground for friendly wagers and competitive fun. Golf betting games, spanning a range of formats, bring an extra layer of excitement to the course. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, these games offer something for everyone, turning each round into an engaging experience. Let’s explore some popular golf betting games that cater to all skill levels.
Stroke Play
Stroke Play is the essence of golf, boiled down to its purest form. Players compete to finish the course with the fewest total strokes. It’s straightforward yet challenging, as every shot counts. Betting in stroke play typically involves wagering on the lowest total score, making it a game of consistency and precision. It’s a format that speaks to the heart of golf, where every swing can make a difference.
Match Play
In Match Play, the game shifts from the total score to individual holes. Players compete head-to-head, with each hole won contributing to their overall match score. It’s not about how many, but how and when you score. This format introduces a strategic depth, where understanding your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses is as crucial as mastering the course.
“The most important shot in golf is the next one.”
Ben Hogan
Nassau
Nassau is golf’s three-in-one betting game, comprising separate wagers for the front nine, back nine, and the total 18 holes. Originating from the Nassau Country Club, it’s a format that keeps the game interesting throughout. Whether you’re leading on the front nine or making a comeback on the back, Nassau ensures that the game is never over until the last putt drops. The addition of “presses” – additional bets starting at any hole during the round – adds another layer of excitement and strategy.
Skins Game
Skins Game turns each hole into a separate contest with its own stake, known as a “skin.” The player with the lowest score on a hole wins the skin for that hole. If there’s a tie, the skin carries over, increasing the value of the next hole. To excel in Skins, focus on winning holes outright, as ties lead to carryovers that can significantly raise the stakes. It’s a game that rewards risk-taking and bold play on individual holes, making it a good game for both players and spectators.
Stableford
Stableford scoring flips traditional golf scoring on its head. Instead of counting strokes, players earn points based on their performance relative to par on each hole. For example, a score of one over par might earn one point, while a birdie could earn three. The goal is to accumulate the highest point total. This format encourages aggressive play, as the reward for scoring under par is higher than the penalty for going over. Make sure to consider each player’s ability to score birdies and eagles, as these will significantly boost their point total.
Best Ball (Fourball)
In Best Ball, also known as Fourball, teams of two compete, with each player playing their own ball. The lowest score from each team on each hole counts as the team’s score. This format requires strategic team composition – pair a consistent player with a risk-taker, or two players with complementary skills. When betting, assess both players’ abilities on each team. A strong pairing where both players can contribute low scores on different holes offers a significant advantage.
Scramble
Scramble is a team format ideal for players of mixed abilities. Each team member tees off, and the best shot is selected. All team members then play their next shots from that spot. This process continues until the hole is completed. Key to winning in Scramble is strategic shot selection and leveraging each player’s strengths. For instance, use a strong driver’s shot on the tee, then switch to a player with a good short game near the green. When betting, consider the overall balance of skills in each team, as well as their ability to collaborate effectively.
Foursomes (Alternate Shot)
Foursomes, or Alternate Shot, is a two-person team game where teammates alternate hitting the same ball. One player tees off on odd-numbered holes, and the other on even-numbered holes. The strategy here lies in pairing players with complementary skills; for example, a player with a strong tee shot paired with a player who excels in putting. Effective communication and understanding each other’s playing style are crucial. Betting strategies should focus on the synergy between team members and their ability to navigate the course’s challenges together.
Bingo Bango Bongo
Bingo Bango Bongo awards points on each hole based on three achievements: being the first to reach the green (Bingo), being closest to the pin once all balls are on the green (Bango), and being the first to hole out (Bongo). This game suits players of all levels as it rewards different aspects of play. Focus on your approach shots to secure Bingo, refine your short game for Bango, and practice putting for Bongo. When betting, consider players’ all-around skills and their ability to clinch these key moments.
Wolf
In Wolf, played in a group of four, players rotate being the ‘Wolf.’ On each hole, after everyone tees off, the Wolf must decide whether to partner with one of the other three players or go solo against them. The key is strategic decision-making based on the other players’ tee shots. As the Wolf, if you see a strong tee shot, it might be wise to choose that player as your partner. Betting strategies revolve around the Wolf’s ability to make these crucial decisions and the other players’ capacity to perform under pressure.
Greenies
Greenies is a side bet that focuses on par-3 holes. The player whose tee shot lands closest to the pin and who makes par or better wins the bet. It’s a game that rewards precision and control. To excel, focus on your tee shot accuracy and ensure you can finish the hole in par or less. When betting on Greenies, consider each player’s proficiency with irons and their overall consistency on par-3s.
Sandies
Sandies is a bet won by making par or better after hitting from a bunker. The challenge lies in effective bunker play – a skill that often separates seasoned players from novices. To win at Sandies, focus on improving your sand shots, particularly your ability to control distance and direction out of the bunker. When betting, consider players’ proficiency in sand play and their overall consistency in saving par from challenging positions.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas pairs two teams of two, where the scores of team members are paired (not added) to form a new number. For example, if one player scores 5 and their partner scores 4, their team score is 54. The lower score always goes first. This format can lead to high stakes and big swings in scores. Strategic team composition is key, as is consistency in scoring. When betting, assess the potential for volatility in scores and the ability of teams to handle the pressure of big swings.
Sixes (or Hollywood)
Sixes, also known as Hollywood, is a format where players rotate partners every six holes over an 18-hole round. This game tests adaptability and versatility, as players must adjust their strategies to suit each partner’s strengths and weaknesses. Effective communication and a well-rounded skill set are crucial for success. Betting strategies should focus on players’ ability to perform consistently with different partners and under varying conditions.
Gruesomes (or Yuckies)
In Gruesomes, a two-player team format, opponents choose which of the other team’s tee shots they must play. This game adds a psychological twist, as players must deal with the added pressure of opponents selecting their most challenging shots. Success in Gruesomes requires mental resilience and the ability to recover from difficult positions. When betting, consider players’ mental toughness and their skill in playing recovery shots.
Snake
Snake is a putting side bet where the player who last three-putts is holding the “snake.” They hold it until another player three-putts. This game adds pressure to putting, as players aim to avoid mistakes on the green. To avoid the snake, focus on improving your putting, particularly your ability to read greens and control distance. Betting strategies should consider players’ putting skills and their ability to handle pressure on the greens.
Quota System
The Quota System assigns players a point quota based on their handicap and then awards points for birdies, eagles, and so on. Players aim to beat their quota. This system levels the playing field, making it suitable for players of varying skill levels. To succeed, focus on playing to your strengths and maximizing scoring opportunities. Betting strategies should consider players’ consistency and their ability to score relative to their handicap.
Flag
In Flag, players receive a flag at the start, with their total number of strokes (based on handicap) written on it. They plant the flag where their final ball lies after they’ve used up their strokes. The furthest flag wins. This game tests players’ ability to manage their game effectively under a finite number of strokes. Betting strategies should focus on players’ course management skills and their ability to maximize efficiency with each shot.
Which One Will You Choose?
From the strategic depth of Nassau to the high-stakes excitement of Las Vegas, golf betting games offer a variety of challenges and fun for players of all skill levels. So, grab your clubs, place your bets, and enjoy the wealth of golf betting games that make every round a unique adventure.